Introducing a novel intraoral mandibular nerve block technique for loco-regional analgesia in camels (Camelus dromedarius): a cadaveric study using computed tomography.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to introduce a novel intraoral technique for performing mandibular nerve blocks in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius). In this study, 18 adult camel skulls of varying ages and breeds were examined to determine the position of the mandibular foramen. Using a Vernier caliper, three dimensions in millimeters were measured: (1) the distance between the mandibular foramen (MF) and the caudal edge of the third molar tooth at the occlusal surface level, (2) the distance between the MF and the rostral edge border of the mandible's ramus (RER) at the occlusal surface level, and (3) the distance between the MF and the ventral margin border of the mandible (VM). The technique was evaluated using five intact camel cadaver heads (n = 5), and a total of ten mandibular nerve blocks were described. An 18-gauge 80-mm Tuohy needle was inserted into the mouth commissure and advanced caudally while injecting a saline-methylene blue solution. The accuracy of the injection was confirmed through the infiltration of the contrast dye into the target area using computed tomography (CT) and post procedural dissection. Anatomical study of the mandibular nerve site was performed to aid the blind insertion of the needle. The findings contribute to the development of veterinary anesthesia techniques and provide anatomical considerations for clinicians performing oral surgeries in sedated camels. The results demonstrated the successful implementation of the intraoral technique, highlighting its efficacy and reliability in achieving local anesthesia for oral surgeries involving the lower jaw and teeth in sedated camels. Further research studies are needed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of the technique and to compare it with existing approaches.