PMC3417947_01
Axial ultrasound (US) image of the popliteal sciatic nerve with the needle guidance system activated highlighting the projected needle trajectory to the nerve. Philips Ultrasound System HD 11 with 12-3 linear probe (Philips Medical Systems; Andover, MA).
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It was 6.9 cm (Figure 1).
Draped nondisposable component of the Ultra-Pro II  Needle Guide (CIVCO; Kalona, IA USA) covering a 12-3 linear ultrasound probe (Philips Medical Systems; Andover, MA) with a 17 g x 3.5 inch insulated tuohy needle (Arrow International, Reading, PA) inserted through the disposable portion of the Ultra-Pro II   Needle Guide.
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This system highlights the needle trajectory on the US image with superimposed dotted lines and secures a precise inplane view of the needle (Figure 2).
Axial ultrasound (US) image of the popliteal sciatic nerve with the needle aligned with the projected needle trajectory course to the nerve. Philips Ultrasound System HD 11 with 12-3 linear probe (Philips Medical Systems; Andover, MA).
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International (Reading, PA) 17 g x 3.5 inch insulated tuohy needle under simultaneous real-time US visualization and nerve stimulation of 1.0 milliamp (mA) observed tracking exactly along the dotted guide line that was displayed on the screen (Figure 3). In addition to maintaining an in-plane view, the needle and probe function as one unit, helping to secure the US probe placement.
Popliteal sciatic nerve catheter (StimCath , Arrow International, Reading, PA) advancement with the needle position maintained by the needle guide attached to the US probe with the patient prone.
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The needle position was maintained solely by holding the US probe (Figure 4).