Dr André Varandas Borges | Specialist Doctor:

 

Nerve Block - Diagnosis and Therapy

A nerve block is a medical technique used to relieve temporary pain in a specific area of the body, usually by administering a local anaesthetic. This technique can be used for both diagnosis and treatment of pain, depending on the clinical circumstances.

Here are some key points about the nerve block technique:

Objective: The main aim of a nerve block is to temporarily interrupt the transmission of pain signals along a specific nerve or group of nerves. This can be done to diagnose the source of the pain (as in a diagnostic block) or to provide temporary pain relief (as in a therapeutic block).

Substances used: Nerve blocks usually involve the administration of a local anaesthetic, which is a substance that temporarily interrupts the conduction of nerve impulses. In some cases, other medications, such as corticosteroids, can also be used to reduce inflammation and provide prolonged relief.

Types of nerve blocks: There are various types of nerve blocks, depending on the area of the body being treated. Some examples include peripheral nerve blocks, spinal nerve blocks (such as epidural blocks), sympathetic nerve blocks, among others.

Procedure: The nerve block procedure usually involves administering the anaesthetic substance in close proximity to the nerve or nerves to be blocked. It can be performed with image guidance, such as ultrasound, to ensure precision in localising the nerve.

Diagnostic purpose: In some cases, the nerve block is used as a diagnostic tool to determine whether a specific nerve is the source of the pain. If the patient experiences pain relief after the block, this suggests that the blocked nerve is related to the pain.

Therapeutic Purpose: In other cases, the nerve block is performed as a direct treatment to provide temporary pain relief. This can be particularly useful in situations where other treatment approaches have not been effective.

It's important to note that nerve blocks are generally considered safe when carried out by trained healthcare professionals under suitable conditions. However, as with any medical procedure, there are associated risks and benefits, and the decision to perform a nerve block should be made in consultation with the healthcare professional responsible for the treatment.

 

Consult here some of pathologies and treatments that Dr. André Varandas Borges treats.