Analgesic Efficacy of Blocking Nerve to Vastus Lateralis Muscle Versus Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve After Knee Surgeries

Analgesic Efficacy of Blocking Nerve to Vastus Lateralis Muscle Versus Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve After Knee Surgeries: A Randomized Trial

This study aims to compare the analgesic efficacy and functional outcomes of blocking the nerve to the vastus lateralis (NVL) muscle versus the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN).

Knee surgeries are associated with significant postoperative pain, which can impede early mobilization and prolong recovery. Recent advancements in ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia have enabled more targeted nerve blocks, such as the blockade of the nerve to the vastus lateralis (NVL) and the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN)

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years.
• Both sexes.
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status from I to III.
• Underwent knee surgeries under spinal anesthesia.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy.
• Coagulopathy.
• Neuromuscular disorders.
• Hematological disorders.
• Mental disorders.
• History of multiple traumas or anesthesia drug allergies.
• Local skin infection at the block site.
• Body mass index (BMI) greater than 40.
• Opioid analgesics or abusing opioids.