An Alternative Method of Intercostal Block (Studies of the use of the Jet Injector)

Abstract

Intercostal nerve block is a simple technique which can provide useful analgesia for large areas of the thoracic and abdominal wall. Although it is not so difficult to perform as some other nerve blocks it suffers two important disadvantages which have limited its wider use. Firstly, if the source of pain is extensive, multiple injections on both sides of the body may be necessary and this may discourage the inexperienced doctor, who would probably find it easier to prescribe a single injection of Morphine or similar drug.