The sciatic nerve block in emergency settings: a comparison between a new anterior and the classic lateral approaches.

Background: Anterior and lateral approaches to the sciatic nerve block are performed with the patient in the supine position. This could be an important advantage when mobilization to the limb involved is limited or painful, particularly in emergency conditions. The aim of this prospective, randomized study was to compare these two sciatic nerve blockades performed in an emergency setting.

[Evaluation of regional anesthesia procedure in an emergency department].

Objectives: Evaluation of regional anaesthesia procedures for limb traumatic surgery performed in an emergency department.

Method: Anaesthetic procedures concerning traumatic emergencies have been studied from 1995 to 2000.

Results: A 32% increase in anaesthesia practice was observed from 1995 (221) to 2000 (292) with a 52% increase in regional anaesthesia.