Tips for a Femoral Nerve Block

The femoral nerve block is one of the most clinically applicable nerve block techniques with a high success rate. The ultrasound-guided technique allows the practitioner to monitor the spread of local anesthetic and needle placement, make adjustments, and reduce the risk of femoral artery puncture. 

As opposed to more distal techniques, such as a femoral triangle block or adductor canal block, a femoral nerve block can provide complete anesthesia for knee surgery.

Adhere to these 3 essential tips for a successful femoral nerve block:

1. Place the transducer transversely over the femoral crease.
2. Identify the femoral artery with the femoral vein medial to it.
3. Insert the needle in-plane, from lateral to medial, to pierce the fascia iliaca lateral to the femoral nerve and inject 10-15 mL of local anesthetic.

Watch the video below to get a better picture of the process and see how the NYSORA Nerve Blocks App brings these instructions to life: 

For more tips like these and the complete guide to the 60 most frequently used nerve blocks, download the Nerve Blocks App HERE. Don’t miss the chance to get the bestselling NYSORA Nerve Blocks App also in book format – the perfect study companion with the Nerve Blocks app!