Peripheral Nerve Block Anesthesia

Peripheral nerve is composed of axons of multiple neurons bundled together in fascicles. Performing a successful block requires the local anesthetic to be deposited near the nerve or in the same fascial plane in which the nerve lies. Advances in ultrasound technology allow real-time visualization of needle advancement toward the nerve, potentially avoiding critical structures. It also allows to visualize the spread of local anesthetic around the nerve or the fascial plane desired. Ultrasound and peripheral nerve stimulators facilitate nerve blockade and improve success rate, but their use does not eliminate the risk of nerve injury.