Penile block via the subpubic space in 100 children

Abstract

A technique for blocking the dorsal nerves of the penis was designed after reevaluation of the gross anatomy of the subpubic space and penis in children. The technique consists of inserting a short bevel needle in the two compartments of the subpubic space, where the nerves run before entering the base of the penis, and of injecting a small volume (0.1 mL/kg of body weight) of local anesthetic. This two-puncture procedure was prospectively evaluated in 100 children undergoing surgery of the penis under light general anesthesia. The local anesthetic was a solution of 1% lidocaine (Group A) or 0.5% bupivacaine (Group B). The technique did not require any special skill and was successful in all patients. In four cases, the block needle was withdrawn and reinserted due to venous blood reflux. No complications occurred and anesthesia was satisfactory for completion of surgery. The duration of postoperative pain relief was significantly longer in patients given bupivacaine than in those given lidocaine. It is concluded that the subpubic approach to the dorsal nerves of the penis is easy, safe, and reliable, and that 0.5% plain bupivacaine provides long-lasting postoperative pain relief.