Efficacy of Ultrasound-guided Injection of 5% Dextrose for Meralgia Paresthesia

6-month Efficacy of Ultrasound-guided Injection of 5% Dextrose for Meralgia Paresthesia

Meralgia paresthetica (MP) is one of the most common peripheral entrapment neuropathies of the lower limbs. It is characterized by paresthesia, pain, tingling, numbness, hypersensitivity, or other abnormal skin sensations on the anterolateral aspect of the thigh. The condition results from compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) along its course, often occurring as the nerve exits the pelvis.The injection of 5% dextrose (D5W) under ultrasound guidance is a novel treatment method for peripheral nerve entrapment. However, there is limited evidence about the efficacy of this method for patients with MP. The investigators found D5W was more safe and effective than corticosteroids for patients with MP. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the 6-month efficacy of ultrasound-guided injection of D5W for MP patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients aged between 18 and 80 years;
• those diagnosed with MP based on clinical and physical examination, with symptoms persisting for at least 3 months;
• a high-resolution ultrasound revealing LFCN compression as it exited the pelvis.

Exclusion Criteria:

• MP resulting from trauma, surgery or occupying lesions affecting the LFCN;
• pregnancy;
• concurrent presence of rheumatic immune diseases, hypothyroidism, or diabetes mellitus;
• a known history of allergy to lidocaine or corticosteroids;
• L2/3 lumbar radiculopathy;
• patients who had undergone local injection or surgery for MP within 3 months