Airway Anatomy/Blocks

Question 1

What are the three blocks of the airway?

Answer 1

1. Superior Laryngeal Nerve Block (SLN)
2. Transtracheal block
3. Glossopharyngeal Nerve Block

Question 2

What are the 4 indications of a superior laryngeal nerve block?

Answer 2

1. oral cavity cannot be accessed
2. limited cooperation
3. rescue of failed aerosol/spray/neb SLN block
4. when coughing is inadvisable

Question 3

What is the target of the SLN block?

Answer 3

internal branch of the SLN; anesthesia to the inferior aspect of the epiglottis & vocal cords

Question 4

What equipment is needed for the SLN block?

Answer 4

cleaning solution
10mL syringes
21-22g needles

Question 5

What is the medication for a SLN block?

Answer 5

6mL of 1-2% lidocaine