The primary objective of this study was to compare ultrasound visibility of the lumbar plexus at the intertransverse space between paramedian transverse scan and shamrock technique. Moreover obtaining a clear image of relevant structures is imperative. Thus, the secondary objective was to assess ultrasound visibility of each relevant structure and overall visibility between these two methods.
Background: Ultrasound-guided lumbar plexus block (USG LPB) is regarded as a form of advanced ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia (USGRA). One of the key challenges of USG LPB is visualization of the lumbar plexus. That are currently in use for ultrasound-guided lumbar plexus blockade - paramedian transverse scan (PMTS) and shamrock technique. Method: Twenty-three healthy adult volunteers aged ≥ 18 years were enrolled in this prospective cohort study. Ultrasound visualization results were compared between methods.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Purpose
DIAGNOSTIC
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
23
This scanning technique is performed in the lateral decubitus position with the side of interest facing upwards. The transducer is placed in the transverse plane on the flank of the patient cranially to the iliac crest. The quadratus lumborum muscle is identified medial to the aponeurosis of the transversus abdominis muscle. With the psoas muscle anterior to the transverse process, the erector spinae muscle posterior to the transverse process, and the quadratus lumborum muscle attached to the apex of the transverse process of L4.
The ultrasound transducer is positioned 4 cm lateral to the midline along the intercristal line and just above the iliac crest. The transducer is also directed slightly medially.
Siriraj hospital
Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand
Percentage of Video (VDO) loops visualization of lumbar plexus
Percentage of Video (VDO) loops visualization of lumbar plexus comparing between two techniques
Time frame: 1 month
Ultrasound visibility score of each relevant structures
10 structures: Erector spinae muscle, Quadratus lumborum muscle, Psoas muscle, Vertebral body, Inferior vena cava, Articular process of the lumbar vertebra, Lumbar paravertebral space, lumbar nerve root, Lumbar plexus nerve, Psoas compartment Using 4-point Likert scale (0, not visible; 1, hardly visible; 2, well visible; 3, very well visible)
Time frame: 1 month
Overall ultrasound visibility score of 10 structures
Sum of ultrasound visibility score of 10 relevant structures: Erector spinae muscle, Quadratus lumborum muscle, Psoas muscle, Vertebral body, Inferior vena cava, Articular process of the lumbar vertebra, Lumbar paravertebral space, lumbar nerve root, Lumbar plexus nerve, Psoas compartment
Time frame: 1 month
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