Median nerve block is a technique used for providing anaesthesia to the median nerve territory, it may be performed at the level of the arm, elbow, forearm or the wrist.
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Indications
- fracture reductions
- surgical repair of fractures
- incision and drainage of cysts and abscesses
- post-operative analgesia
- burns involving tissue in the median nerve territory
Contraindications
- cellulitis or abscess in the site of injection
- known allergy to local anaesthetics
- compartment syndrome
Equipment
- high-frequency linear ultrasound probe
- disinfectant agent
- sterile ultrasound gel
- sterile probe cover
- local anaesthetic
- skin or block needle
Complications
Even if it is a simple and safe block, complications may occur such as:
- infection of the puncture site
- intravascular injection
- allergic reaction to anaesthetic products
- direct nerve damage with neuropraxia or neurolysis
- intramuscular haematoma
- unsuccessful block
- local anaesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST)
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