Ultrasound Imaging of the Spine for Central Neuraxial Blockade: a Technical Description and Evidence Update

Abstract Purpose of Review This article describes the anatomy spine, relevant ultrasonographic views, and techniques used to perform neuraxial blocks using ultrasound imaging. Finally, we review available evidence for use imaging blocks. Recent Findings Central blockade traditional landmark palpation is a reliable technique provide surgical anesthesia postoperative analgesia. However, factors like obesity, spinal deformity, previous spine surgery can make procedure challenging. The has been shown assist in these scenarios. Summary Preprocedural minimizes technical difficulty epidural placement with fewer needle passes skin punctures. It helps accurately identify midline, vertebral level, interlaminar space, predict depth intrathecal spaces. By providing information about best angle direction approach, addition depth, allows planning an ideal trajectory successful block. These benefits are most noticeable when expert operators carry out examination patients predicted difficult anatomy. suggests that pre-procedural may reduce complications such as vascular puncture, headache, backache. Neuraxial should be skill set every anesthesiologist who routinely performs lumbar or thoracic blockade. We recommend preprocedural acquire maintain skills enable success challenging procedures.