Objective: To determine the most suitable concentration of ropivacaine on sciatic nerve blocks with stimulating catheters.
Methods: Sixty adult patients undergoing surgeries involving the foot and ankle were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=20): The patients in group A were given 0.1% ropivacaine, the patients in groups B and C received 0.125% and 0.15% ropivacaine respectively. We combined ultrasound and nerve stimulators for popliteal sciatic nerve blocks, and then placed stimulating catheters for postoperative analgesia. VAS and adverse effects were monitored 6 h, 12 h, 24 h and 48 h after surgery.
Results: The difference of VAS was of significance in statistics 6 h and 12 h postoperation. VAS in Group A at postoperative 6 h and 12 h was significantly higher than that in Groups B and C(P<0.05). The incidence of motor disturbance and limbs numbness in Group C was significantly higher than that in Groups A and B (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the satisfaction of the three groups (P>0.05).
Conclusion: The most suitable concentration of ropivacaine on sciatic nerve blocks with stimulating catheters is 0.125%.