Novel ultrasound-guided flags assisted WalKing block for enhanced recovery after surgery (FAWKES) in three dogs undergoing tibial plateau levelling osteotomy.

FAWKES block demonstrated adequate intraoperative analgesia with preserved motor function in tibial plateau levelling osteotomy.

This case series presents a novel multimodal regional anesthesia technique called FAWKES (Flags Assisted WalKing block for Enhanced recovery after Surgery) in three dogs undergoing tibial plateau levelling osteotomy for cranial cruciate ligament rupture. The technique combines the FLAGS block (infiltrating around genicular structures), saphenous nerve block, and periarticular knee infiltration using a mixture of ropivacaine, dexmedetomidine, dexamethasone, and epinephrine. All dogs demonstrated hemodynamic stability with no significant increases in heart rate, respiratory rate, or mean arterial blood pressure during surgery. Postoperatively, all dogs retained motor function with two ambulating on the affected limb within one hour and one requiring only flexion capability. Only one dog required rescue analgesia (methadone) 12 hours post-surgery. All dogs resumed eating within 12 hours and were discharged without complications. The results suggest the FAWKES block provides effective intraoperative analgesia while preserving postoperative motor function, though controlled studies are needed to establish efficacy and safety.

This summary was distilled by AI and may occasionally misinterpret data. Confirm critical details with the primary literature before clinical application.