The primary objective of this study is to compare ultrasound versus nerve stimulator techniques for nerve localization when performing peripheral nerve blocks. Specifically the investigators will be performing Popliteal, Femoral, and Interscalene nerve blocks. The investigators will be looking for differences in 1) time taken to locate the target nerve and inject local anesthetic 2) time from injection of local anesthetic to adequate surgical anesthesia 3) effectiveness of block 4) incidence of vascular puncture 5) incidence of adverse events 6) patient satisfaction.
After obtaining informed consent, subjects will be randomized to either the ultrasound or nerve stimulator groups as the method for nerve localization prior to peripheral block placement.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Ochsner Clinic Foundation
New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
time from injection of local anesthetic to adequate surgical anesthesia
Time frame: within the first 45 minutes after injection of local anesthestic
effectiveness of block
Time frame: within 1 hour of injection
time taken to locate the target nerve and inject local anesthetic
Time frame: within 45 minutes prior to injection
incidence of vascular puncture
Time frame: within 30 minutes of injection
incidence of adverse events
Time frame: within 2 weeks of the day of surgery
patient satisfaction
Time frame: within 2 weeks of the date of surgery
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