Fluoroscopy guided cervical plexus block for carotid endarterectomy - a case report

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Vascular Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is frequently performed using regional anesthesia supplemented with sedation.
• Cervical plexus blocks, either deep, superficial, or combined, are effective anesthetic techniques for CEA.
• Anatomical variations and inconsistent landmarks can challenge the accuracy of cervical plexus blocks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the utility of fluoroscopy in guiding cervical plexus block administration.
• To present a case demonstrating the successful application of fluoroscopy-assisted cervical plexus block for CEA.

Main Methods:

• Review of anesthetic techniques for CEA, focusing on regional anesthesia and cervical plexus blocks.
• Discussion of various imaging modalities used to enhance block success rates and safety.
• Case report detailing the use of fluoroscopy for precise needle placement during cervical plexus block.

Main Results:

• Fluoroscopy provides real-time visualization, aiding in accurate needle placement for cervical plexus blocks.
• Imaging guidance can potentially increase the success rate and reduce complications associated with the block.
• The case report illustrates the practical application and benefits of fluoroscopy in this setting.

Conclusions:

• Fluoroscopy is a valuable tool for improving the accuracy and safety of cervical plexus blocks for CEA.
• Utilizing imaging modalities like fluoroscopy helps overcome anatomical challenges and inter-individual variations.
• This technique contributes to the growing trend of performing CEA under regional anesthesia.