Effectiveness of WALANT Technique in Various Orthopedic Surgeries: A Prospective Observational Study

Dr. Ravi Bharatbhai Bhingaradiya, Dr. Shiv Acharya

Abstract: Background: The Wide Awake Local Anesthesia No Tourniquet (WALANT) technique has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional anesthesia methods in orthopedic surgeries [1] [2]. This study aimed to evaluate the functional and clinical outcomes of patients undergoing various orthopedic surgeries using the WALANT technique [1] [3]. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 50 patients who underwent various orthopedic surgeries using the WALANT technique [1]. Patients were assessed for intraoperative pain using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), hemostasis control, and postoperative outcomes at 1 day. [1] [4]. A hemostasis scoring system was used to evaluate bleeding control, surgical field visibility, need for additional measures, patient tolerance, and postoperative complications [4] [5]. Results: The study included 34 males (68%) and 16 females (32%), with most patients in the 30 - 50 age range [1]. Intraoperative VAS scores showed that 56% of patients experienced mild pain (VAS 2 - 3), while 84% reported minimal pain (VAS 1) on the first postoperative day [1] [6]. Hemostasis control was excellent in 84% of cases, with 74% scoring 1 and 10% scoring 0 on the bleeding control scale [1] [4]. No significant complications were observed, with only two cases of vasovagal syncope and one case of arrhythmia reported [1] [7]. Conclusion: The WALANT technique demonstrated excellent functional and clinical outcomes in various orthopedic surgeries, with minimal pain, good hemostasis, and high patient satisfaction [1] [8]. This technique offers a safe and effective alternative to traditional anesthesia methods, particularly beneficial for outpatient procedures and patients with comorbidities [8] [9].

Keywords: WALANT, orthopedic surgery, local anesthesia, hemostasis, pain management, functional outcome