No abstract

An additional test dose via the catheter is recommended if the indwelling catheter is inserted after injection of the local anesthetics through the puncture needle. If epidural anesthesia occurs, an x-ray of the catheter is advisable because negative aspiration via catheter does not rule out subarachnoid catheter location.

No abstract

High-resolution ultrasonic imaging allows clear depiction of the target tissues and facilitates accurate needle placement during high interscalene brachial-plexus blocks. This technique may minimize the risk of direct puncture-related complications, as well as accidental intravascular injection of LA. The observation of LA spread in all patients, even in small increments of less than 1 mL might enhance safety by limiting the injected LA to the actual demand. Well-placed LA spread could potentially avoid central nervous toxicity caused by intravascular injection or resorption of inadequately high dosages, in particular in nerve blocks of the highly vascularized neck region.

No abstract