European journal of anaesthesiology
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Observational Study
Ultrasound guidance of needle tip position for femoral nerve blockade: An observational study.
The femoral nerve lies in the ilio-fascial space in a groove formed by the iliac and psoas muscles (GIPM) posteriorly, and overlaid by the iliac fascia. Recommendations for needle insertion for femoral blockade using ultrasound imaging are to insert the needle tip behind the iliac fascia at the lateral side of the femoral nerve, but this part of the nerve is poorly visualised in some patients. A more accurate location of the lateral part of the femoral nerve might be achieved by identifying the GIPM and its lateral segment. ⋯ The GIPM was seen in the majority undergoing ultrasound-guided femoral nerve blockade, even when the lateral part of the femoral nerve was not visualised. Using the lateral segment of GIPM as a target for needle tip location in an in-plane lateral to medial approach of the femoral nerve deserves further investigation.
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Historical Article
Early forms of local anaesthesia: A historical review.
The direct application of volatile anaesthetic and the application of intense cold to traumatic injuries and surgical sites were important steps in 18th and 19th century anaesthesia. Local tissue temperature could be brought down by the application of ice and salt by the surgeon. Techniques used topical applications of chloroform, Dutch Oil, amyl hydrate, the vaporisation of nebulised ether, methylene and ethylene chloride applied by spray or fumigation and vaginal douche with carbonic acid gas. ⋯ To improve the precision of the jet, a different system of nozzles had to be invented. Nineteenth century medical practitioners were able to call on general anaesthesia, but some individuals and specific indications such as minor surgery called for an alternative approach. The introduction of cocaine in 1884 completely changed common practice.