Sciatic Nerve Blockade: A Survey of Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Specialists in North America and the United Kingdom

Abstract

This study represents a current practice review of sciatic nerve blocks performed amongst senior foot and ankle surgeons. Although no absolute consensus has been reached as to the use of ultrasound or whether the patient needs to be awake for the procedure, it is clear that the standard of care does not mandate either of these. The differences between US and UK practice are probably cultural and do not appear to affect the number of complications encountered.