Sonographically guided ilioinguinal nerve block.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe a sonographically guided ilioinguinal nerve block in adults. METHODS: We developed a useful step-by-step technique of sonographically guided ilioinguinal nerve block based on visualization of abdominal muscles, fascial planes, and the branch of the deep circumflex iliac artery. RESULTS: We performed 9 sonographic examinations with subsequent blockade of the ilioinguinal nerve. All injections resulted in a clinically successful sensory block. CONCLUSIONS: This technique is reliable and reproducible. The block is achievable by a low-volume local anesthetic injection. Visualization of the intestines and blood vessels in the abdominal wall may help prevent an inadvertent injury.