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Which order of systemic local anesthetic toxicity is correct?

A. Intercostal > caudal > epidural > sciatic > brachial plexus
B. Epidural > caudal > intercostal > brachial plexus > sciatic
C. Intercostal > caudal > epidural > brachial plexus > sciatic
D. Caudal > intercostal > brachial plexus > epidural > sciatic
E. Intercostal > caudal > epidural > sciatic > brachial plexus 186 CHAPTER 7 ANSWERS

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The correct order of systemic local anesthetic toxicity from most to least is Intercostal > Caudal > Epidural > Brachial Plexus > Sciatic, matching choice A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct order of systemic local anesthetic toxicity is determined by the blood supply to the area of injection, and the likely hood of the anesthetic being absorbed into the circulatory system, potentially causing toxicity. The order from most to least toxic is generally Intercostal > Caudal > Epidural > Brachial Plexus > Sciatic, which corresponds to answer choice A. Intercostal blocks have a higher risk because the intercostal vessels provide a rich blood supply, leading to rapid absorption of the anesthetic into the system. Caudal blocks involve injecting the anesthetic into the sacral canal, which has less vascularization compared to the intercostal space. Epidural anesthesia is associated with a moderate risk of systemic absorption. The brachial plexus and sciatic nerve are peripheral nerve blocks with lesser blood supply compared to the aforementioned blocks, thus carrying a lower risk of systemic toxicity.

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