Abstract:
ObjectiveTo investigate the influence of ultrasound targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) on the effects of lidocaine on sciatic nerve blockade (SNB) in rats. MethodsA total of 72 male SD rats weighing 200-300 g were randomly divided into six groups (n=8): a blank control group (Group C), a 1% lidocaine group (Group Ll), a l% lidocaine+microbubble group (Group LM1), a 2% lidocaine group (Group L2), a 2% lidocaine+microbubble group (Group LM2), and a microbubble group (Group M). Then, the maximum possible effect (MPE) and extensor postural thrust (EPT) were measured to evaluate the sensory and motor function of the hind limbs before SNB and 10, 20, 30, 45 min, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 h after SNB. The modified Tarlov scores were measured before SNB, and 2 days and 1 week after SNB. The right sciatic nerves were removed for morphology observation 1 week after SNB. The levels of S100 in sciatic nerves were determined by Western blotting. ResultsCompared with the value before SNB, the MPE was significantly increased 10 min-1 h after SNB for Group L1, 10 min-2 h after SNB for Groups LM1 and L2, and 10 min-6 h for Group LM2 (P<0.05). Compared with Group L1, the MPE was significantly increased 30 min-2 h after SNB for Group LM1 (P<0.05). Compared with Group L2, the MPE was significantly increased 30 min-6 h after SNB for Group LM2 (P<0.05). Compared with the value before SNB, the EPT was significantly decreased 10-45 min after SNB for Group L1, 10 min-1 h after SNB for Groups LM1 and L2 and 10 min-2 h after SNB for Group LM2 (P<0.05). Compared with Group L1, the EPT was significantly decreased 30 min-1 h after SNB for Group LM1 (P<0.05). Compared with Group L2, the EPT was significantly decreased 45 min-2 h after SNB for Group LM2 (P<0.05). Compared with the value before SNB, the modified Tarlov scores were significantly decreased 2 days after SNB for Groups L2 and LM2 (P<0.05). Modest nerve injury and increased S100 expression were observed in Groups L2 and LM2 one week after SNB. ConclusionsUTMD can enhance the effects of lidocaine on sciatic nerve blockade in rats, with good biocompatibility. The efficacy of 2% lidocaine under UTMD is superior to that of 1% lidocaine, but may possibly induce nerve injury.