Sciatic Nerve (popliteal approach)

Last updated: February 9, 2026

For

below knee surgeries, ankle replacements/fractures

Needle

22G 50mm

Local

0.2% Ropivacaine 20 mL + 4 mg dexamethasone

Target

Scan proximal and distal to locate sciatic nerve where it splits into tibial nerve and common peroneal nerve. Target injection right at the split to deliver local into the sheath.

Tricks

Elevate the foot on blankets so probe can be placed underneath the knee. More lateral than expected, and tilt probe toward feet. Look for the peanut (where tibial and common peroneal join)