Lumbar plexus block with perineural catheter and sciatic nerve block for total hip arthroplasty.

This case series describes the use of continuous lumbar plexus block with sciatic nerve block as an alternative anesthetic for total hip arthroplasty (THA). A retrospective chart review was performed on 10 consecutive patients who underwent THA at Walter Reed Army Medical Center using continuous lumbar plexus block and sciatic nerve block for anesthesia. Continuous lumbar plexus block with sciatic nerve block without concurrent general anesthesia has not been described previously for THA. Peripheral nerve block may provide superior intraoperative outcomes, as suggested by lower operative blood loss and potentially lower transfusion exposure. Lumbar plexus block with perineural catheter and sciatic nerve block with perioperative sedation is an effective alternative to general anesthesia for THA. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA).