Tips for a PEC I Block

The PEC I block, targeting the medial and lateral pectoral nerves that supply the pectoralis muscles, is used to provide analgesia for surgeries involving the breast, clavicle, and acromioclavicular joint. It is particularly indicated for procedures involving the pectoralis major muscle, including breast prosthesis insertion, implantable cardiac device placement, and anterior thoracotomies.

Learn the 3 key steps to successfully perform a PEC I block:

1. Place the transducer in a sagittal orientation below the midline of the clavicle.
2. Identify the pectoralis major and minor muscles with the axillary artery, vein, and elements of the brachial plexus lying under the fascia of the pectoralis minor. Slide the transducer caudally to identify the 2nd and 3rd ribs. 
3. Insert the needle in-plane, from cephalad to caudal, and inject 10-20 mL of local anesthetic between the pectoralis major and minor muscles. 

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!