A Novel Ultrasound-guided Forearm Continuous Peripheral Nerve Block Technique Using Bidirectional Hydrodissection

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Pain Management
• Ultrasound-Guided Procedures

Background:

• Postoperative rehabilitation is crucial for functional recovery after hand surgery.
• Continuous peripheral nerve blocks offer pain relief and motor function preservation but face adoption barriers due to invasiveness and reliability concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a simplified, reliable, and safe continuous peripheral nerve block technique for hand surgery.
• To improve upon existing methods by enhancing nerve visualization and catheter placement accuracy.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel continuous peripheral nerve block technique using the parallel method.
• Application of hydrodissection in the axial view to create space around the target nerve.
• Utilizing the created space for safe and accurate catheter placement in the sagittal view.

Main Results:

• The technique simplifies nerve identification, especially for difficult-to-visualize nerves.
• Hydrodissection facilitates precise catheter placement in the perineural space.
• The method enhances safety and reliability compared to conventional techniques.

Conclusions:

• This novel ultrasound-guided continuous peripheral nerve block technique offers a reliable and safe approach for hand surgery.
• The simplified method addresses previous concerns regarding invasiveness and technique reliability.
• Implementation of this technique is expected to lead to more effective postoperative rehabilitation and improved patient outcomes.