Levobupivacaine versus ropivacaine in psoas compartment block and sciatic nerve block in orthopedic surgery of the lower extremity.

AIM

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical profiles of psoas block and sciatic nerve block performed with either 0.5% levobupivacaine or 0.75% ropivacaine.

METHODS

With ethical committee approval and written informed consent 80 ASA physical status I-II patients, undergoing lower extremity surgery received intravenous premedication with midazolam (0.05 mg/kg) and atropine (0.01 mg/kg). Patients were randomly allocated to receive a lumbar plexus block with: Levobupivacaine Group (L) 30 ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine or Ropivacaine Group (R) 0.75% ropivacaine, and sciatic nerve block with: Group R 10 ml 0.75 ropivacaine or Group L 0.5% levobupivacaine. The onset time and duration of nerve block were evaluated.

RESULTS

The motor onset time was shorter in Group L than in Group R. The motor offset time was similar in the 2 groups, the time being slightly greater for Group R. Group L presented a higher difference of resolution to motor-sensitive block compared to Group R.

CONCLUSIONS

The differences between Groups L and R were characterised by: a faster motor onset time in Group L with a longer time between motor and sensitive resolution determining a lower demand for analgesic drugs postoperatively and greater support for motor control recovery.