A skull block, also known as a scalp block, is a regional anesthesia technique involving the blockade of nerves that supply sensation to the scalp.
This blockade aims to anesthetize the scalp by injecting local anesthetic agents around specific nerves. These nerves include:
- Greater and lesser occipital nerves: Located at the back of the head.
- Supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves: Situated at the forehead.
- Auriculotemporal nerves: Found near the ears.
- Greater auricular nerves: Located on the side of the head and neck.
The purpose of a skull block can vary. Clinically, it may be performed to:
- Reduce pain: Provides analgesia for procedures involving the scalp.
- Reduce hypertension and tachycardia: In some cases, a skull block has been shown to help manage high blood pressure and rapid heart rate, possibly by blocking pain signals.
In summary, a skull block is a nerve block of the scalp, used for analgesia, and potentially for managing hypertension and tachycardia.
