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Augmented Surface Anatomy


 

Master Surface Landmarks: Understanding surface anatomy is essential for identifying anatomical structures and ensuring precise needle placement in regional anaesthesia.


Enhanced Procedural Accuracy: Improve nerve targeting and reduce complications by mastering surface anatomy.


Augmented Reality Advantage: Visualise underlying structures with augmented surface anatomy for better spatial awareness and precision.


Boost Confidence: Mastering surface anatomy helps you perform regional anaesthesia with greater accuracy and confidence.

 

Intermediate Cervical Plexus Block


ARIRA regional anaesthesia course showing Cervical Plexus Block - Augmented surface anatomy
Cervical Plexus Block - Augmented surface anatomy

Mastoid Process

Location: The mastoid process is a bony prominence located just behind the ear.

Relevance: The mastoid process serves as the upper boundary when locating the cervical plexus, as the block is typically performed at the level of the C4 vertebra. It provides a reference point for the superior extent of the block area, guiding the practitioner in correctly identifying the starting point for needle insertion.


Transverse Process of C6 (Chassaignac’s Tubercle)

Location: This is a bony prominence located on the lateral aspect of the neck, above the clavicle, near the cricoid cartilage level.

Relevance: Palpating the transverse process of C6 provides a clear anatomical landmark for needle insertion during the block. The C6 vertebra is often used as a reference point for identifying the approximate location of the C4 level, where the cervical plexus emerges, aiding in the accurate placement of the block.


Sternocleidomastoid Muscle (SCM)

Location: The SCM is a prominent muscle running from the mastoid process down to the sternum and clavicle.

Relevance: The intermediate cervical plexus block is performed along the posterior border of the SCM. The muscle is easily identifiable on the surface, making it a reliable guide for the procedure. The posterior border is typically where the needle is inserted to reach the cervical plexus, ensuring effective anaesthesia.


External Jugular Vein

Location: The external jugular vein runs superficially across the SCM from the angle of the jaw down to the clavicle.

Relevance: While not always visible, the external jugular vein is a landmark that can be used to avoid vascular injury during the procedure. The vein's course is close to where the block is administered, so its identification can help in planning the needle insertion path to avoid puncturing the vein.


Needle Insertion Point

Location: The needle for the intermediate cervical plexus block is inserted at the midpoint of the posterior border of the SCM, typically at the level of the C4 vertebra.

Relevance: This point is chosen to target the superficial branches of the cervical plexus, which lie just beneath the investing fascia of the neck.



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