Peripheral Nerve Block (Upper Limb)

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 > Peripheral Nerve Block (Upper Limb)

What is a peripheral nerve block?

A peripheral nerve block is a type of regional anaesthetic that involves injecting local anaesthetics and other painkillers near the major nerves to your arm (upper limb).

How does a nerve block work?

A nerve block works by temporarily numbing your nerves to give pain relief. Local anaesthetics and other painkillers are injected, using a fine needle, near the nerves to your arm. You may need more than one injection.

A nerve block can be used instead of a general anaesthetic for the operation, and is also an effective form of pain relief afterwards. Depending on the operation, the injection may be given in the side of your neck, or near your collarbone or armpit, or in your elbow, forearm or wrist.

What does the procedure involve?

Your anaesthetist will usually use an ultrasound scanner or nerve stimulator to help guide them where to inject the anaesthetic.

Your anaesthetist will insert the needle and when they are certain that it is in the right position they will inject anaesthetic through it. They will usually remove the needle.

Sometimes your anaesthetist may insert a small tube through the needle before they remove it, leaving the tube in place so they can inject more anaesthetic.

What effect does a nerve block have?

A nerve block has two main effects.

  • Pain relief – The nerve block numbs the sensory nerves responsible for pain and touch.
  • Weakness – The nerves supplying muscles may also be affected.

What complications can happen?

Some complications can be serious and can even cause death.

  • Change in your breathing
  • Failure of the nerve block
  • Allergic reaction
  • Bleeding
  • Nerve damage
  • Visual disturbance or loss of vision
  • Local anaesthetic toxicity
  • Pneumothorax
  • Droopy eyelid on the side of the nerve block
  • Developing a hoarse voice

*Our fixed-price packages do not include the cost of your initial consultation or any diagnostic tests done at the time. Prices will be confirmed after your first appointment with a consultant specialist.
All prices given are guide prices. Our treatment packages are bespoke, and therefore our private healthcare prices differ from case to case. We will confirm prices in writing before going ahead with any treatment.

This document is intended for information purposes only and should not replace advice your healthcare team gives you. This information is published under license from EIDO Healthcare UK and is protected by copyright. Other than for your personal, non-commercial use, you may not copy, print, download or otherwise reproduce it.

A peripheral upper limb nerve block can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief both during and after the operation.

What to do next
  1. Talk to us about ways to pay, either insured or self-pay, and find out if you need a referral from your doctor.
  2. If you need one, ask your GP for a referral letter.
  3. Call us to book an appointment with a consultant.
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