How long does scalene block last?

The block can last anywhere from 4 to 18 hours, depending on which medicines are used. As with any anesthetic, there are risks and benefits to interscalene blocks.

How is a scalene block done?

Simply stated, an Interscalene block will numb your shoulder and arm before surgery so that your brain will not receive any pain signals during and immediately after surgery. The block involves injecting numbing medication near the nerves that regulate sensation in the shoulder and arm.

How long does a nerve block for shoulder surgery last?

For shoulder surgery, the numbing medicine is placed into the nerves just above the collarbone. The numbness will extend from your hand up through your shoulder. The nerve block can last up to 24 hours.

What can I expect from a scalene block?

There is no discomfort; the only sensation is that of the transducer moving over the skin. You will first notice a numbing sensation in the arm, shoulder, and fingers. The interscalene block will begin to take effect anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes after being administered, depending on the numbing medication used.

Is a nerve block for shoulder surgery painful?

For most patients, the injection is no more painful than having the cannula in your vein or bloods taken. Once the injection is done, your arm may start to feel warm, tingly or numb but it can take 20 to 40 minutes for the block to work fully.

What is a scalene injection?

Scalene muscle injections are used to confirm the diagnosis of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome and predict the response of patients to surgery. We performed a retrospective study to determine if relief of pain was related to brachial plexus blockade in these patients.

Can a nerve block affect your breathing?

However, a side effect of nerve blocks at this level is involvement of the phrenic nerve, which is anatomically close to the injection point. This may cause (temporary) paralysis of the diaphragm and in some cases, severe respiratory dysfunction.