| Nerve Block - A nerve
block involves infiltrating local anaesthetic around a nerve to interrupt
conduction (temporarily). Small fibres (particularly pain fibres) are most
affected. Larger fibres are affected to a lesser degree (hence touch
sensation may remain). What advantage does a nerve block have over direct
infiltration? Appropriate sites for access to nerves are determined by
relationships to anatomical landmarks and potential hazards (e.g
accompanying vessels and neighbouring vital organs). Landmarks directly
observed or palpated, coupled with knowledge of anatomy and its
variations, are vital for correct placement. |
