Erector spinae plane blocks: A narrative update.

The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is perhaps one of the most interesting of the tissue plane blocks described recently. There has been an exponential increase in the number of publications for both adults and children over the past 5 years. Single-shot, intermittent bolus, and continuous infusion techniques have been used effectively.

Thoracic regional anesthesia and the impact on ventilation.

Thoracic surgical incisions can be associated with intense pain or discomfort. Postoperative thoracic pain may be multifactorial in origin. Inadequate analgesia causes respiratory dysfunction.

The anatomical features of an ultrasound-guided erector spinae fascial plane block in a cadaveric neonatal sample.

Background: Since its inception, the erector spinae plane block has been used for a variety of truncal surgeries with success in both adults and children. However, the anatomical features, route of spread, and dermatomal coverage are still not fully understood in a pediatric population.

Objectives: To identify the anatomical features of the erector spinae fascial plane space by replicating an erector spinae plane block in a fresh neonatal cadaveric sample.

The extent of cranio-caudal spread within the erector spinae fascial plane space using computed tomography scanning in a neonatal cadaver.

Background: The erector spinae plane block (ESP) is a novel approach for blockade of the spinal nerves in infants, children, and adults. Until recently, the gold standard for truncal procedures includes the paravertebral and epidural blocks. However, the exact mechanism by which this blockade is achieved is subject to debate.

Anatomy of the greater occipital nerve block in infants.

Background: Pain relief for posterior fossa craniotomies as well as occipital neuralgia, are indications for the use of the greater occipital nerve block in children. The greater occipital nerve originates from the C2 spinal nerve and is accompanied by the occipital artery as it supplies the posterior scalp.

Aims: The aim of this study was to develop a unique, yet simple technique for blocking the greater occipital nerve in children through the evaluation of the anatomy of this nerve and the accompanying occipital artery in the occipital region.

Anatomical description of the sciatic nerve block at the subgluteal region in a neonatal cadaver population.

Introduction: Sciatic nerve blocks provide intraoperative and prolonged postoperative pain management after lower limb surgery (posterior knee, foot, skin graft surgery). Accurate needle placement requires sound anatomical knowledge. Anatomical studies on children are uncommon; most have been performed on adult cadavers.