Brown's Atlas of Regional Anesthesia

Ultrasound for fascia iliaca and inguinal region blocks

Key Points A high-frequency linear transducer is preferred for this block. The fascia iliaca compartmental block (FICB) can be used as an alternative anterior approach to the lumbar plexus block, targeting the femoral, obturator, and lateral femoral cutaneous nerves. The…

Femoral block

Perspective This block is useful for surgical procedures carried out on the anterior thigh, both superficial and deep. It is most frequently combined with other lower extremity peripheral blocks to provide anesthesia for operations on the lower leg and foot.…

Sciatic block

Perspective The sciatic nerve is one of the largest nerve trunks in the body, yet few surgical procedures can be performed with sciatic block alone. It is combined most often with femoral, lateral femoral cutaneous, or an obturator nerve block.…

Lumbar plexus block

Inguinal perivascular block (three-in-one block) Perspective The inguinal perivascular block is based on the concept of injecting local anesthetic near the femoral nerve in an amount sufficient to track proximally along fascial planes to anesthetize the lumbar plexus. The three…

Lower extremity block anatomy

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Intravenous regional block

Key points Intravenous (IV) regional anesthesia is usually achieved using dilute lidocaine 0.5%; 50 mL of prilocaine has also been used successfully. The IV regional block is useful for procedures lasting 90–120 minutes. This time limit is due to tourniquet…

Distal upper extremity blocks

Key points Blockade of peripheral nerves of the upper extremity is often accomplished by brachial plexus approaches. However, conditions such as infections to brachial plexus sites, coagulopathy, single nerve distribution, minor procedures (not requiring a tourniquet), and rescue supplementations of…

Axillary block

Perspective Axillary brachial plexus block is most effective for surgical procedures distal to the elbow. Some patients can undergo procedures on the elbow or lower humerus with an axillary technique, but strong consideration should be given to a supraclavicular block…

Infraclavicular block

Perspective Infraclavicular brachial plexus block is useful for both single-injection and continuous infusion techniques. This technique results in a sensory and motor block similar to a traditional axillary approach, albeit with certain advantages. Thus it is most useful for patients…

Suprascapular block

Key Points High-frequency, 38-mm broadband linear array transducer is preferred for this block. For catheter insertion, the Tuohy needle is usually used. The catheter is placed beneath the transverse scapular ligament around the suprascapular nerve (SSN). The correct position of…