Ultrasound Needle Guides, An Effective Tool In Nerve Blocks
T. PARRAS* V. SALOTA**
*Consultant Anaesthetist. St George´s Hospital. London
**SPR Anaesthetist. King´s College Hospital. London
INTRODUCTION
Keeping the needle tip within scan plane continues being a challenge. “Infinity Plus” guides help us to increase the success of the block and patient safety
ULTRASOUND NEEDLE GUIDES
Several guides depending on the technique: “in plane” or “out of plane”.
Several guides depending on the probe used: linear (Fig. 1) convex (Fig. 2).
Several guides depending on the gauge of the needle used.
EVIDENCE [1, 2]
Better visualization of the needle, as it stays within the scan plane all the time.
Successful first attempt placement, reducing procedure time.
Reduce inadvertent adjacent structures puncture.
Enhance patient safety and comfort.
Reduce infection rate.
CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasound needle guides have the potential to make regional blocks safer, quicker and reducing complication rate. They reduce the learning curve and improve patient outcome.
1. Ball R, Scouras N, Orebaugh S, et al. “Randomized Prospective Observational Simulation Study Comparing Residents Needle-Guided vs. Free-hand Ultrasound Techniques for Central Veneous Catheter Access.” British Journal of Anaesthesia. 108.1 (2011): 72-79. 2. Gupta R, Lane J, Allen B et al. “Improving Needle Visualization by Novice Residents During an In-Plane Ultrasound Nerve Block Simulation Using an In-Plane Multi-Angle Needle Guide.” Pain Medicine. 14.10 (2013): 1600-1607.
