The University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff has procured a SonoSite S-Nerve point of care ultrasound system for its delivery suite.
Dr Rafal Baraz, consultant anaesthetist, said: “We purchased the S-Nerve primarily for immediate central venous access, although I also use it to perform epidurals, TAP blocks and for acute pain relief. The system is mainly used in the delivery suite, but it is robust and portable, and can be effortlessly moved to the maternity ward if necessary.”
Speaking about the importance of imaging guidance, he added: “I would not now put a block anywhere in the body without ultrasound. Performing nerve blocks with the aid of a nerve stimulator can be hit and miss, but with ultrasound-guided injection I can see exactly where the needle is and I know precisely where I am injecting the local anaesthetic. S-Nerve is a real asset in an emergency situation. For example, if a patient is bleeding, the vein is going to be quite small and difficult to access, and ultrasound guidance becomes crucial.”
