Articles: nerve-block.
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Journal of anesthesia · Aug 2021
A real-time anatomy ıdentification via tool based on artificial ıntelligence for ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve block procedures: an accuracy study.
We aimed to assess the accuracy of an artificial intelligence (AI)-based real-time anatomy identification software specifically developed to ease image interpretation intended for ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve block (UGPNB). Forty healthy participants (20 women, 20 men) were enrolled to perform interscalene, supraclavicular, infraclavicular, and transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks under ultrasound guidance using AI software by anesthesiology trainees. During block practice by a trainee, once the software indicates 100% scan success of each block associated anatomic landmarks, both raw and labeled ultrasound images were saved, assessed, and validated using a 5-point scale by expert validators. ⋯ Assessment scores of validators for all blocks were similar in male and female individuals. Mean assessment scores of validators were not significantly different according to age and BMI except for TAP block, which was inversely correlated with age and BMI (p = 0.01). AI technology can successfully interpret anatomical structures in real-time sonography while assisting young anesthesiologists during UGPNB practice.
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Case Reports
Efficacy of ganglion impar block on vulvodynia: Case series and results of mid- and long-term follow-up.
Vulvodynia is a common chronic gynecological disease that affects approximately 16% of women, although it is rarely diagnosed. However, no known effective treatment exists. The etiology of vulvodynia is unknown and may be heterogeneous and multifactorial, so it is difficult-if not impossible-to improve this condition using 1 treatment method. Reports have shown that vulvodynia has an element of neuropathic pain. Although the role of the sympathetic nervous system in neuropathic pain is controversial, sympathetic nerve blocks have long been used to treat patients with chronic pain giving good results. A ganglion impar block (GIB), a sympathetic nerve block technique, may effectively manage pain and discomfort in patients with vulvodynia. ⋯ GIB is a good treatment option for patients suffering from chronic pain and discomfort caused by vulvodynia.