Psoas compartment block in children: Part I--description of the technique.
BACKGROUND
Until recently only small series of psoas compartment blocks (PCB) in children have been reported. A high incidence of epidural spread as an important side effect was noted. A series of 100 consecutive blocks using new standardized landmarks is reported.


METHODS
In 100 consecutive children (5.9-106 kg) PCB was performed using a nerve stimulator. In the lateral position, the needle was inserted between the medial 2/3 and the lateral 1/3 on a line from the spinous process of L4 to the posterior superior iliac spine. The blocks were performed by residents in training under supervision of one specific designated pediatric anesthetist.


RESULTS
All blocks were clinically successful. In 64% only one attempt was necessary, in 26 patients two attempts were necessary and in 10 patients more than two attempts were necessary. In 16% a vascular puncture occurred. In one patient with a dense unilateral block a partial epidural spread occurred. No serious complications were observed during the perioperative period.


CONCLUSIONS
The described new technique has a very high success rate with no relevant side effects. Although only one case of epidural spread occurred, PCB remains an invasive technique with the potential for serious complications.
Schuepfer
Guido
G
International Research Center, UZ Gent, University of Gent, Gent, Belgium.
Jöhr
Martin
M
D000767:Anesthesia, Epidural; D000769:Anesthesia, Inhalation; D002648:Child; D004558:Electric Stimulation; D006801:Humans; D016014:Linear Models; D035002:Lower Extremity / Q000601:surgery; D009407:Nerve Block; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures; D017211:Treatment Failure