Neonatal limb ischemia: caudal blockade and NIRS monitoring

Eur J Pediatr. 2014 Dec;173(12):1599-601. doi: 10.1007/s00431-013-2152-y. Epub 2013 Sep 5.

Abstract

The treatment of neonatal limb ischemia (LI) is challenging for neonatologists. Peripheral nerve blockade (PNB), alone or in association with other therapies, represents a valid therapy in case of vascular spasm or thromboembolic events responsible for LI. In the present case report, we describe the clinical history of a preterm neonate with catheter-related thrombosis of the left leg. PNB was not performed according to the traditional technique but rather by a peridural catheter left in situ for 9 days with a continuous infusion of ropivacaine. In conclusion, the effectiveness of this approach was confirmed by the contemporary near-infrared spectroscopy monitoring, documenting gradual improvement of leg perfusion.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Amides*
  • Anesthesia, Caudal / methods*
  • Anesthetics, Local*
  • Catheterization, Peripheral / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature
  • Infant, Premature, Diseases / diagnosis
  • Infant, Premature, Diseases / etiology
  • Infant, Premature, Diseases / therapy*
  • Ischemia / diagnosis
  • Ischemia / etiology
  • Ischemia / therapy*
  • Leg / blood supply*
  • Male
  • Nerve Block / methods*
  • Ropivacaine
  • Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared
  • Thrombosis / diagnosis
  • Thrombosis / etiology
  • Thrombosis / therapy

Substances

  • Amides
  • Anesthetics, Local
  • Ropivacaine