Standard approaches for upper extremity nerve blocks with an emphasis on outpatient surgery
- Resource Type
- Academic Journal
- Authors
- Kwofie, Kwesi; Shastri, Uma; Vandepitte, Catherine
- Source
- Current Opinion in Anaesthesiology. Aug 01, 2013 26(4):501-508
- Subject
- Language
- English
- ISSN
- 0952-7907
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Currently, no standards exist with regard to the techniques and administration of ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks. Consequently, the techniques and teaching substantially vary among practitioners and institutions. The purpose of this review is to propose a set of standard US-guided techniques for upper extremity nerve blocks. RECENT FINDINGS: On the basis of the synthesis of information in available literature and the consensus of an internationally recognized collaborative panel of regional anaesthesia experts, the review recommends a standardized approach to common upper extremity nerve blocks using ultrasound guidance. SUMMARY: A set of structured recommendations and approaches are suggested to help standardize clinical practice and teaching of ultrasound-guided upper extremity nerve blocks. Additional emphasis is placed on the discussion of nerve blocks in outpatient surgery.