Needles used for nerve blockade

Needles used for nerve blockade

1. Needle gauge should be the smallest possible for patient comfort. A 22-gauge needle is used most commonly. Short-beveled needles (45°) have become standard for peripheral nerve blocks. Insulated needles used in nerve stimulator-guided techniques have a small conductive area at the needle tip allowing for more accurate nerve stimulation at lower amplitudes of current. Ideal needle length varies by block. Upper- and lower-extremity blocks are best performed with a 50- to 150-mm needle depending on nerve depth. Echogenic needles designed for use in ultrasound-guided techniques have modifications such as special coating, scoring of the needle’s surface, and reflector placement to enhance reflection of ultrasound waves and improve needle visualization.