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A review of the anatomy and a step-by-step visual guide to performing an ultrasound-guided infraclavicular brachial plexus block


S Govender
D Möhr
ZN Tshabalala
A van Schoor

Abstract

Background: The aim of this description is to provide step-by-step guidelines for performing an ultrasound-guided infraclavicular brachial plexus nerve block.
Methods: The brachial plexus in the infraclavicular fossa of sixty healthy volunteers was scanned in the horizontal/transverse plane. The relevant regional anatomy was studied to identify the muscular and vascular structures seen on the ultrasound screen.
Results: The entire process was documented and a standard, step-by-step guide to performing ultrasound-guided vertical infraclavicular brachial plexus blocks was developed.
Conclusion: The development of high-resolution ultrasound guidance has allowed for the direct visualisation of the brachial plexus when performing nerve blocks. Ultrasound-guided infraclavicular brachial plexus nerve blocks are becoming more popular. This description aimed to provide step-by-step guidelines on how to perform this block safely and efficiently.


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eISSN: 2220-1173
print ISSN: 2220-1181