Sciatic Nerve and Lumbar Plexus Block for Below Knee Amputation- Newer Approach for Better Haemodynamic Stability and Patient Safety

Abstract

Patients undergoing lower extremity amputation may have multiple co-morbid conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular, hepatic and renal disorders and are at risk of perioperative mortality and morbidity. Peripheral nerve blocks are associated with minimal haemodynamic changes, improved regional blood flow and are ideal for high risk patients who cannot tolerate slightest attenuation in haemodynamic response. The present report is of a 50-year-old female patient admitted for below knee amputation surgery. Sciatic nerve and lumbar plexus block were the mode of anaesthesia. It was found that regional anaesthesia in the form of nerve block provided adequate anaesthesia and analgesia, provided greater haemodynamic stability and patient safety.