[Peripheral truncal blocks-Overview and assessment]

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pain Medicine
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Sonography has increased the relevance of truncal blocks in anesthesia and pain therapy.
• Ultrasound guidance improves needle placement safety and reduces complications compared to landmark techniques.
• Interfascial and compartment blocks are established, not always requiring visualization of specific nerves.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review published and clinically established ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia techniques.
• To evaluate the clinical value based on scientific evidence and analgesic profiles.
• To discuss potential risks, complications, and local anesthetic dosing.

Main Methods:

• Review of published literature on ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia techniques.
• Analysis of clinical indications, procedures, and established puncture methods.
• Assessment of scientific evidence for clinical value and analgesic efficacy.

Main Results:

• Ultrasound guidance facilitates safer needle placement and allows for complex regional anesthesia procedures.
• Established techniques include specific nerve blocks, interfascial blocks, and compartment blocks.
• The review provides data on clinical utility, risks, complications, and anesthetic dosing.

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia, particularly truncal blocks, offers significant advantages in safety and efficacy.
• The review consolidates current knowledge on established techniques, their clinical value, and associated risks.
• This information supports informed decision-making in anesthesia and pain management practices.