Intra-operative Block Protocol
tooth
STERILE
The subjects assigned to block group (B) received SION blocks with 0.5% ropivacaine with epinephrine 1:200 000 following induction of general anesthesia, and the placebo group (P) received the same volume SION blocks using sterile, preservative-free normal saline. Following general anesthetic induction and endotracheal intubation, supra-orbital and infra-orbital (SION) injections with study medication were performed. Supra-orbital nerve blocks were performed bilaterally using 3 cc (on each side for a total of 6 cc) of the study solution. A percutaneous technique was used to block both bilateral supra-orbital and supra-trochlear nerves. A 27 gauge, 1.5 needle attached to a 10-cc syringe was used. Then, the infra-orbital nerves were blocked intra-orally following retraction of the upper lip and using a 27-gauge, 2.54 cm needle attached to a 10-cc syringe inserted anterior to the ipsilateral canine tooth that runs along the maxilla. Here, 3 cc of the study drug was placed bilaterally for a total of 6 cc. The needles were directed superiorly toward the infra-orbital foramen on the ipsilateral side, as was described in the “Lynch” method [