Interkostalnervblockad

Interkostalnervblockad is a medical procedure involving the injection of a local anesthetic into the intercostal nerves. These nerves run along the spaces between the ribs. The primary purpose of this block is to provide pain relief. It is commonly used to manage acute pain following chest surgery, trauma, or rib fractures. It can also be employed for chronic pain conditions affecting the chest wall.

The procedure is typically performed by a physician, often an anesthesiologist or pain management specialist. After sterilizing the skin over the affected intercostal space, a needle is carefully inserted to locate the target nerve. Ultrasound guidance may be used to enhance accuracy and safety. Once the needle is in the correct position, the local anesthetic is injected. The anesthetic blocks the transmission of pain signals from the intercostal nerves to the brain, resulting in a temporary loss of sensation and pain relief in the area supplied by that nerve.

The effects of an interkostalnervblockad are usually temporary, with pain relief lasting for several hours to days, depending on the anesthetic used. Potential complications are rare but can include bleeding, infection, pneumothorax (collapsed lung), or nerve damage. The procedure is generally well-tolerated, and it offers a valuable option for managing specific types of pain.