Equine Nerve Block Flashcards
What are equine nerve blocks used for
Diagnostic tool to identify lameness in the limb
When should equine nerve blocks NOT be performed
When there is a potential fracture of the limb
What is the antibiotic of choice when performing an equine nerve block
Mepivacaine (lasts 90-120mins)
Lidocaine can be used but only lasts 30-45mins
What is the correct length and gauge for distal equine nerve blocks
25g
5/8”
How do you prepare for equine nerve blocks
Clip excess hair
Obtain consent!
Clean skin - chlorohexadine
Clean injection site with alcohol
In what order should you complete equine distal nerve blocks
Distal to proximal
If blood appears in the hub of the syringe after inserting the needle while performing an equine distal limb nerve block, what should you do?
Redirect the needle axially
What are the 3 distal equine nerve blocks
Palmar digital nerve block
Abaxial sesamoid nerve block
Palmar and palmar metacarpal nerve block
How should horse stand for Palmar Digital NB
Non-weight bearing
Where should needles be positioned for a palmar digital NB
Palpate neurovascular bundle - draw thumb over palmerolateral and palmeromedial aspect of pastern. Nerve is most axial structure.
Insert needle slightly medial and distal subcutaneously
How much mepivacaine should be used during PD NB
1-1.5ml
What position should horse stand for an abaxial sesamoid NB
Non-weight bearing
Where should needles be positioned for an abaxial sesamoid NB
Palpate depression in base of proximal sesamoids
Palpate neurovascular bundle approximately 1cm above the depression and slightly abaxial.
Insert needle axial subcutaneously
Which region does a PD NB desensitise
Foot - sole, distal intepharangeal joint, navicular bursa
Which region does a AS NB desensitise
Limb distal to fetlock
Occasionally fetlock
How much mepivacaine should be used in an abaxial sesamoid NB
2-2.5ml
How should a horse stand for palmar and palmar metacarpal NB
Weight bearing
How do you place needle for palmar NB
Palpate gap between deep digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament
Insert needle mid - distal 1/3 cannon @90 degree angle into gap
On either side
How should you place a needle for palmar metacarpal nerve block
Palpate “button” at distal splint bone
Insert needle distal to button subcutaneously
How much mepivacaine should be used for each site of palmar and palmar metacarpal NB
1-2ml
Which regions do palmar and palmar metacarpal NB desensitise
Entire digit up to and including the fetlock
How can foot pain be detected in horses
Hoof testers
