IS REGIONAL POPLITEAL SCIATIC NERVE BLOCK A BETTER OPTION FOR TREATING PEDIATRIC SPORTS INJURIES THAN GENERAL ENDOTRACHEAL ANESTHESIA?

Abstract

In pediatric anesthesia, the use of ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks has grown in favor. In order to determine the most effective anesthetic technique for pediatric ankle and foot sport procedures, this study evaluated the effectiveness of popliteal sciatic nerve blocks. ASA I or II pediatric patients between the ages of 1 and 14 who had either a localized popliteal sciatic block or general endotracheal anesthesia for surgery due to a sport injury were included in the retrospective analysis. The length of analgesia, the length of recovery, the time until hospital discharge, and any problems that were reported were evaluated. In comparison to general endotracheal anesthesia, popliteal plexus regional anesthesia showed quicker operation times, shorter recovery times, and longer analgesia durations. Additionally, the popliteal plexus anesthetic group's average hospital stay was shorter and there were no problems. Despite several cases of unsuccessful blocks and minor problems in the general anesthetic group, it was clear that popliteal nerve blocks often reduced pain, reduced the need for opioids, increased patient comfort, and sped up recovery. In conclusion, popliteal nerve blocks are a safe, dependable, and effective alternative to conventional anesthetic methods for treating postoperative pain in pediatric ankle and foot procedures.