Brachial plexus block using electrolocation for pancarpal arthrodesis in a dog.
Conduction blockade was achieved at the brachial plexus of a dog undergoing surgery for pancarpal arthrodesis. The lidocaine/bupivacaine mixture used was the sole analgesic treatment applied during surgery and for 3 hours post-operatively. Location of the plexus brachialis was facilitated using a nerve stimulator. A low volume of lidocaine and bupivacaine (0.26 mL kg(-1)) resulted in successful blockade, which was evident from stable cardiorespiratory variables at low end-tidal (1.3-1.4%) isoflurane concentrations. Pain scoring and examination of motor and sensory function indicated adequate pain relief for 7 hours. While localization of the plexus brachialis can be performed 'blindly', electrolocation improves the success rate for less experienced anaesthetists.
Wenger
Sandra
S
Department for Clinical Studies, Anaesthesiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Berne, Switzerland. sandra.wenger@kkh.unibe.ch
D000779:Anesthetics, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000818:Animals; D001174:Arthrodesis / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D001917:Brachial Plexus; D002350:Carpus, Animal / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery*; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D004285:Dogs / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery; D004558:Electric Stimulation; D005260:Female; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*
D000779:Anesthetics, Local