Ultrasound guidance for the performance of sciatic and saphenous nerve blocks in dogs

The aim of this study was to investigate the use of ultrasound (US) guidance to perform sciatic and saphenous nerve blocks in dogs. Five dogs were sedated with medetomidine and butorphanol. A high-resolution US transducer was used to locate the nerves, guide placement of the needle and visualise the perineural injection of lidocaine 2%. Electrostimulation was used to confirm correct placement prior to the sciatic block. Nerve functions were evaluated over a 3 h period following administration of atipamezole. Successful identification of the nerves and the quality of the blocks were recorded. Location of the nerves, complete sensory block of the saphenous nerve, and partial to complete sensory and motor blocks of the sciatic nerve were achieved in all dogs. The resultant US guidance is potentially valuable for blocking the sciatic and saphenous nerves in dogs, although further work will be required to ensure a complete block of the sciatic nerve.