In this multi-phase, randomized split-mouth study, a total of 80 volunteers received two different inferior alveolar (IAN) blocks: one side using a traditional landmarking technique and the other side an ultrasound (US)-guided technique. We also studied different US-guided approaches when the original approach was found to be unsuccessful. We used a visual analogue scale to evaluate pain caused by the US probe and by the different injection techniques. An electrical pulp test device was used to evaluate onset and success of the two techniques.
In-plane US-guided nerve blockade was not technically feasible given the required position of the US transducer needed to appropriately visualize the IAN. US-guided with out-of-plane technique does not improve IAN block success rate. There was more pain associated with free-hand out-of-plane US-guided approach compared to a landmarked technique. There were no adverse events noted with any of the techniques or approaches.M.Sc
