Sonographically guided ilioinguinal nerve block.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to describe a sonographically guided ilioinguinal nerve block in adults.


METHODS
We developed a useful step-by-step technique of sonographically guided ilioinguinal nerve block based on visualization of abdominal muscles, fascial planes, and the branch of the deep circumflex iliac artery.


RESULTS
We performed 9 sonographic examinations with subsequent blockade of the ilioinguinal nerve. All injections resulted in a clinically successful sensory block.


CONCLUSIONS
This technique is reliable and reproducible. The block is achievable by a low-volume local anesthetic injection. Visualization of the intestines and blood vessels in the abdominal wall may help prevent an inadvertent injury.
Gofeld
Michael
M
Department of Anesthesia, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center, 2075 Bayview Ave, MG-630, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada M4N 3M5. michael.gofeld@sunnybrook.ca
Christakis
Monique
M
D000005:Abdomen / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006552:Hernia, Inguinal / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007264:Inguinal Canal / Q000294:innervation*; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000379:methods*; D014463:Ultrasonography