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Great auricular nerve blockade using high resolution ultrasound: a volunteer study
A Thallaj1, P Marhofer, B Moriggl
1Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Anaesthesia
|June 25, 2010
Summary
Ultrasound successfully visualizes the great auricular nerve for targeted blockade. This technique allows for precise anesthesia with minimal local anesthetic, demonstrating the benefits of ultrasound-guided nerve blocks.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Anatomy
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- The great auricular nerve (GAN) is a superficial sensory nerve in the head and neck.
- Accurate localization of the GAN is crucial for effective anesthesia and minimizing complications.
- Ultrasound offers real-time visualization for precise nerve targeting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the sonographic appearance of the great auricular nerve.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided great auricular nerve blockade.
- To determine the extent of sensory blockade achieved with minimal local anesthetic volume.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, observational volunteer study.
- Ultrasound imaging to identify the great auricular nerve.
- In-plane needle guidance for ultrasound-guided nerve blockade using 0.1 ml of 1% mepivacaine.
- Sensory block evaluation via pinprick testing.
Main Results:
- The great auricular nerve was consistently visualized in all volunteers.
- Successful blockade was achieved in the tail of the helix, antitragus, lobula, and mandibular angle.
- The antihelix and concha regions were not consistently blocked.
- Ultrasound-guided GAN blockade was effective with a small volume of local anesthetic.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound imaging provides reliable visualization of the great auricular nerve.
- Ultrasound-guided blockade of the great auricular nerve is feasible and effective.
- This technique offers a safe and efficient method for targeted anesthesia in the head and neck region.
