Ultrasound-Guided Versus Blind Mandibular Nerve Blocks in Goats: A Clinical Trial

Abstract

In goats, regional nerve blocks are preferred over general anesthesia because of their safety and cost-effectiveness. Mandibular nerve blocks are essential for managing dental, endodontic, and periodontal issues, fractures, and mandibular tumors. Ultrasound guided blocks provide real-time visualization and precise needle guidance. The aim of this study is to compare the ultrasound-guided mandibular nerve block technique with the blind technique. In a clinical trial involving 24 adult goats were used. Twenty-four blind mandibular nerve blocks based on the anatomical landmarks were randomly performed on one side of the mandible. Ultrasound guided blocks were performed in the other random 24 trials. The results showed that ultrasound guided approach was significantly more efficient, taking (3.2 ±1.7) minutes to locate the mandibular foramen compared to (11.03 ±0.73) minutes in blind blocks trials. Ultrasound guided blocks achieved anesthesia onset in just (1.57 ±0.35) minutes, while blind blocks took (2.8 ±0.34) minutes. Furthermore, ultrasound-guided blocks showed maintenance of anesthesia for a longer duration (88.1 ±6.9 min) than blind approach (80.9 ±7.4 min). In blind approach, three trials failed to achieve anesthesia because of localization difficulties, highlighting the challenges of blind techniques. In conclusion, ultrasound-guided mandibular nerve block offers clear advantages over blind techniques in terms of feasibility, efficiency, and accuracy.