Ultrasound-guided cervical plexus associated block in dogs: A preliminary cadaveric study

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anatomy
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Regional Anesthesia

Background:

• Cervical plexus blocks are used for locoregional anesthesia in dogs.
• Accurate needle placement is crucial for effective nerve blockade.

Purpose of the Study:

• To ultrasonographically map canine neck anatomy.
• To assess the feasibility of injecting the cervical plexus via the cervical fascia (CF).

Main Methods:

• A prospective cadaveric study using six mesocephalic dogs.
• Ultrasound guidance was used to inject methylene blue into the CF.
• Needle placement and dye spread were assessed via dissection.

Main Results:

• Injection within the CF successfully stained the C2, C3, and C4 ventral nerve branches in all cadavers.
• 100% of targeted nerve branches showed circumferential staining.
• Dye spread cranially to the atlas in the smallest cadaver.

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound-guided injection into the canine cervical fascia is a feasible technique.
• This method effectively stains the cervical plexus, supporting its use for locoregional anesthesia.
• Provides anatomical data for veterinary regional anesthesia.