title: Dose-finding methodology for peripheral nerve blocks.
abstract: Dose-finding studies enable the successful conduct of peripheral nerve blocks by ensuring the administration of appropriate doses of local anesthetic. However, the optimal dose-finding methodology remains ambiguous. In this research methodology article, we set out to review the basic aspects pertaining to dose-response curves (graded vs quantal), the pharmacodynamic indices required by dose-finding studies, the properties of different dose-finding methods (sigmoidal dose-response curve analysis, Dixon-Mood method, Biased Coin Design, and Bayesian analysis), as well as strategies and recommendations for future research.
authors.affiliation: From the Department of Anesthesia, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
authors.forename: Theodosios
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Saranteas
authors.forename: Roderick J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Finlayson
authors.forename: De Q H
authors.initials: DQ
authors.lastname: Tran
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001499:Bayes Theorem; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D054796:Drug Dosage Calculations; D006801:Humans; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000379:methods*; D010525:Peripheral Nerves / Q000187:drug effects*; D012107:Research Design