Alberto Stefano Tagliafico MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Valtero Valsania, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Francesca Lacelli MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Nadia Perrone MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Giulia Succio MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Giovanni Serafini MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Meralgia paresthetica is a sensory neuropathy responsible of pain caused by entrapment of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve at the anterior superior iliac spine. Currently no defined treatment exist. We describe a technique for treatment of the LFCN neuropathy using ultrasound guidance.  

Using a 12-7 MHz linear array broadband transducer the LFCN was visualized on axial planes using the anterior superior iliac spine as anatomic landmark. After nerve identification the needle was advanced to the LFCN under ultrasound guidance via a lateral to medial approach. Injection using dynamic ultrasound demonstrated excellent perineural spread. Perineural injection was made using 1 ml of methylprednisolone acetate (40mg/ml) and 8 ml mepivacaine (2%). Nine subjects (5 males and 4 females; age range 26-59 yrs, mean 37±12 years) were injected. One patient was injected bilaterally. Pain was assessed with clinical examination and VAS score.

Nine subjects underwent successful treatment of the LFCN neuropathy with this technique (p<0.001). Four subjects were obese. There were no complications. The mean duration of the block was 60 days.

Treatment of LFCN neuropathy under ultrasound guidance is effective in reducing patients discomfort.

Treatment of LFCN neuropathy under ultrasound guidance is effective in reducing patients discomfort.

Tagliafico, A, Valsania, V, Lacelli, F, Perrone, N, Succio, G, Serafini, G, US-guided Treatment of Meralgia Paresthetica (Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Neuropathy): Results of Treatment in 9 Patients.  Radiological Society of North America 2010 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2010 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2010/9011933.html