David Belavy1. 1. Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Level 4, Ned Hanlon Building, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Qld 4029, Australia. david@belavy.co
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Anesthesiologists may insert needles through ultrasound gel when performing ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia. In this study, it was determined whether needles carry gel into tissues. METHODS: Ultrasound gel dyed blue was applied to pork rashers. Tuohy and short-bevel needles were passed through the gel and pork. The needles were then assessed for the presence of ultrasound gel. RESULTS: All needles, including those with stylets, carried gel and tissue within the lumen. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound gel may be injected around (and perhaps in) nerves during regional anesthesia procedures. Studies are needed to determine the implications of this practice.
BACKGROUND: Anesthesiologists may insert needles through ultrasound gel when performing ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia. In this study, it was determined whether needles carry gel into tissues. METHODS: Ultrasound gel dyed blue was applied to pork rashers. Tuohy and short-bevel needles were passed through the gel and pork. The needles were then assessed for the presence of ultrasound gel. RESULTS: All needles, including those with stylets, carried gel and tissue within the lumen. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound gel may be injected around (and perhaps in) nerves during regional anesthesia procedures. Studies are needed to determine the implications of this practice.