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Abstract The nerve supply of the lower limb is derived entirely from the lumbar and sacral plexuses. (Berry et al., 1995) The lower limb is innervated by the three main nerves of the lumbar plexus, namely the lateral femoral cutaneous, femoral and obturator nerves. In particular, these nerves, along with the sciatic nerve, innervate the entire lower limb.( Sinnatamby,1999) There has been a growing interest in the practice of regional anesthesia and, in particular, peripheral nerve blocks for surgical anesthesia and postoperative analgesia. (Mulroy et al., 2001) Femoral or lumbar plexus block (with sciatic block when indicated) provide not only an excellent anesthesia but also superb analgesia facilitating timely discharge. (Williams et al., 1998) Ultrasound technology has been applied to increase both efficacy and safety of certain peripheral nerve blocks. (Williams et al., 2003) Ultrasonography seems to be the one most suitable for regional anesthesia. (Perlas et al., 2003) Its advantages include actual identification of target organs, real-time visualization of advancing needle, directed deposition of local anesthetics, observation of injectate spread, and reducing the number of attempts. (Greher et al., 2004) Most complications of regional anesthesia are relatively minor, easily managed and temporary but in rare instances serious and permanent damage occurs. (Fettes and Wildsmith, 2002) In contrast to other anesthetic techniques, such as general or spinal anesthesia, properly conducted peripheral nerve blocks avoid hemodynamic instability and pulmonary complications. (Chung and Mezei, 1998) |