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    Introduction Anatomy
Review Indications Contra-
indications Equipment Reference
Points Block Performance Protocols Complications Control By Dr. Philippe Macaire
Lyon, France Indications

Lumbar plexus block is indicated for any surgery of the hip or knee. Some examples for a single-shot technique include:

     •Anaesthesia of the fractures of the femoral collar and the higher end of the femur 6
     •Early analgesia after hip prosthesis surgery
     •Postoperative analgesia post-op of the surgery of the hip (hip prosthesis, arthrolysis of
       hip) or of knee (prosthesis, arthrolysis)
     •As a compliment with a block of the nerve sciatic nerve to achieve complete anesthesia
       of the lower limb

Similarly, insertion of the lumbar plexus catheter and continuous infusion technique is indicated for postoperative analgesia after extensive hip and knee surgery.

Contraindications

     •Infection in the lumbo-sacral region
     •Trauma to the lumbar vertebra
     •Polytrauma contraindicating lateral decubitus position (please note that the fracture of
       the femoral neck is not a contraindication)
     •Disorders of coagulation
     •Anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy

Lumbar Plexus Block
(Posterior Approach)