PURPOSE: We compared the interadductor approach of obturator nerve block with the traditional approach in terms of the insertion-adductor contraction interval (ICI), success rate, completion of the block, and plasma lidocaine concentration. METHODS: An obturator nerve block by the interadductor approach was performed by needle insertion 1 cm behind the adductor longus tendon and 2 cm lateral to the pubic arch in 12 patients, and by the traditional approach in 12 patients. RESULTS: The ICI with the interadductor approach was significantly shorter than that with the traditional approach. The success rate, completion of the block, and plasma lidocaine concentrations were similar with both approaches. CONCLUSION: The interadductor approach can provide faster identification of the obturator nerve than the traditional approach.
PURPOSE: We compared the interadductor approach of obturator nerve block with the traditional approach in terms of the insertion-adductor contraction interval (ICI), success rate, completion of the block, and plasma lidocaine concentration. METHODS: An obturator nerve block by the interadductor approach was performed by needle insertion 1 cm behind the adductor longus tendon and 2 cm lateral to the pubic arch in 12 patients, and by the traditional approach in 12 patients. RESULTS: The ICI with the interadductor approach was significantly shorter than that with the traditional approach. The success rate, completion of the block, and plasma lidocaine concentrations were similar with both approaches. CONCLUSION: The interadductor approach can provide faster identification of the obturator nerve than the traditional approach.