Effect of systematic dexamethasone on the duration of popliteal nerve block after pediatric ankle/foot surgery

This study is proposed to explore the effect of systemic dexamethasone on the duration of popliteal nerve block for analgesia after pediatric ankle surgery.

After ankle or foot surgery, children need good analgesia. Peripheral nerve blocks have provided a safe, effective method to control early postoperative pain when symptoms are most severe.

The safety of local anesthesia is particularly important in children due to the much lower toxicity threshold of local anesthetics. The use of an effective adjuvant, such as Dexamethasone, could allow for the use of a higher dilution of local anesthetics while maintaining and enhancing their analgesic effect.

There is multiple research where intravenous and perineural dexamethasone use has been compared in adults. However, there is a huge lack of research regarding children.

In this study, investigators compare different doses of systemic dexamethasone. Before the anesthesia, the patients receive dexamethasone intravenously. Groups 2 and 3 have dexamethasone doses of 0.1mg/kg, and 0.2mg/kg.

The investigator's goal is to find a dexamethasone dose that is as low as possible but at the same time covers the need for good pain relief and fast recovery postoperatively.

Inclusion Criteria:

• children scheduled for ankle/foot surgery
• body weight > 5kg

Exclusion Criteria:

• infection at the site of the regional blockade
• coagulation disorders
• immunodeficiency
• ASA= or >4
• steroid medication in regular use