Tips for an Infraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block

An infraclavicular brachial plexus block anesthetizes the brachial plexus at the level of the cords (i.e., lateral, medial, and posterior cords), results in anesthesia of the arm below the shoulder, and is ideally suited for catheter use.

Here’s how NYSORA teaches Infraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block in 3 standardized steps:

1. Place the transducer in a sagittal orientation just below the clavicle and next to the coracoid process.
2. Move the transducer lateral and medial while applying pressure to identify the fascia of the pectoralis minor muscle and axillary artery (AA) below it at a depth of 3-5 cm.
3. Insert the needle in-plane, from cephalad to caudal, behind the AA while avoiding the lateral cord and inject 20-25 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!