Ultrasound-Guided Quadratus Lumborum Block: An Updated Review of Anatomy and Techniques.
Purpose of Review. Since the original publication on the quadratus lumborum (QL) block, the technique has evolved significantly during the last decade. This review highlights recent advances in various approaches for administering the QL block and proposes directions for future research.Recent Findings. The QL block findings continue to become clearer. We now understand that the QL block has several approach methods (anterior, lateral, posterior, and intramuscular) and the spread of local anesthetic varies with each approach. In particular, dye injected using the anterior QL block approach spread to the L1, L2, and L3 nerve roots and within psoas major and QL muscles.Summary. The QL block is an effective analgesic tool for abdominal surgery. However, the best approach is yet to be determined. Therefore, the anesthetic spread of the several QL blocks must be made clear.
Department of Anesthesiology, Showa University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
Hironobu
0000-0002-2533-1178
H
Ueshima
Department of Anesthesiology, Showa University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
Hiroshi
H
Otake
Department of Anesthesiology, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University and Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
Jui-An
0000-0003-0855-4828
JA
Lin
D000009:Abdominal Muscles / Q000294:innervation; D000779:Anesthetics, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000379:methods*; D016658:Psoas Muscles / Q000294:innervation; D013126:Spinal Nerve Roots / Q000187:drug effects*; D013131:Spine / Q000187:drug effects; D014463:Ultrasonography / Q000379:methods*
D000779:Anesthetics, Local