Ultrasound-guided third occipital nerve (TON) blocks

Abstract

Peripheral nerve blocks, including occipital nerve blocks (ONBs), have received increased attention and support as pain management tools during the previous few decades. Researchers have documented usefulness of ONBs particularly for acute headache management in the outpatient setting. The blocks also play a role in other healthcare settings, such as in the emergency department. The potential role of ONBs for the management of acute headache episodes in primary and emergency care settings is not yet fully practiced. In this paper, we will review block techniques of third occipital nerve (TON): indication, medication selection, complications and measures that can help improve safety in this procedure of headache management. Key word: Analgesia, Regional; Headache; Occipital Nerve Block; Occipital Neuralgia; Third Occipital Nerve; Ultrasound-Guide. Citation: Hidayati HB, Puspamaniar VA, Sugondo AT, Firdausa FS. Ultrasound-guided third occipital nerve (TON) blocks. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2024;28(1):166−170; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v28i1.2390 Received: October 13, 2023; Reviewed: October 18, 2023; Accepted: January 02, 2024