Meet The Team
Peripheral Nerve Blocks
This page explains what a peripheral nerve block is, how it works and when you may need it. It explains the benefits and risks.
What is a Peripheral Nerve Block?
A peripheral nerve block is a procedure where a local anaesthetic is injected near specific nerves to temporarily block sensation and/or movement in a specific part of the body. This technique is commonly used to provide pain relief or anaesthesia during surgery, medical procedures, or for pain management after surgery.
What is it Used For?
Peripheral nerve blocks are used in various situations, including:
Surgical procedures
To provide anaesthesia for operations on the arms, legs, shoulders, or other parts of the body.
Postoperative pain relief
To reduce or eliminate pain after surgery.
Chronic pain management
To relieve pain associated with certain conditions like nerve injuries or regional pain syndromes.
Diagnostic purposes
To determine the source of chronic pain.
What are the Benefits?
Targeted pain relief
Provides focused relief in a specific area of the body.
Reduced need for general anaesthesia
May avoid the side effects of general anaesthesia, such as nausea or grogginess.
Improved recovery
May lead to faster recovery and mobility compared to systemic pain medications.
Fewer systemic side effects
As the medication acts locally, there is less risk of affecting other parts of the body.
Customisable
The type, location, and duration of the block can be tailored to the patient’s needs.
Common Questions
What is the Process?
- Preparation: You may be asked to fast before the procedure. Your medical history will be reviewed to ensure the block is safe for you.
- Positioning: You will be positioned comfortably to allow easy access to the area requiring the block.
- Ultrasound or nerve stimulator guidance: The doctor may use ultrasound imaging or a nerve stimulator to locate the nerve.
- Injection: A small needle is inserted near the nerve, and local anesthetic is injected. You may feel some pressure, but it should not be painful.
- Monitoring: You will be monitored to ensure the block is effective and for any immediate side effects.
The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes, and the effects can last several hours to days, depending on the medication used.
What are the Contraindications?
A peripheral nerve block may not be suitable for you if you:
- Have a known allergy to local anaesthetics.
- Have an infection at the injection site.
- Have a bleeding disorder or are on blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin).
- Have certain pre-existing nerve conditions or injuries.
- Are unable to cooperate during the procedure due to severe anxiety or other medical issues.
- Have significant medical instability or conditions that make the block unsafe.
Possible Complications and Risks
While peripheral nerve blocks are generally safe, potential complications include:
- Temporary numbness or weakness: This is normal but may last longer than expected.
- Infection: Rare but possible at the injection site.
- Bleeding or bruising: Especially in patients with clotting issues.
- Nerve damage: Rare and usually temporary, but in very rare cases, it may be permanent.
- Allergic reaction: To the local anaesthetic used.
- Systemic effects: Such as dizziness, ringing in the ears, or seizures, if the anaesthetic accidentally enters the bloodstream.
- Inadequate block: In some cases, the block may not provide complete pain relief or anaesthesia.
Aftercare
- Mobility: You may need assistance walking or using the affected area until sensation and strength return.
- Pain management: As the block wears off, your care team may provide oral pain medications.
- Monitoring: Watch for signs of infection (e.g., redness, swelling, or fever) or prolonged numbness/weakness.
- Contact your doctor: If you experience severe pain, persistent numbness, or any other concerning symptoms.