Professional Diploma in US Guided Regional Blocks in EM

The professional Diploma in Ultrasound-Guided Regional Blocks for Emergency Medicine equips healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and practical skills. Participants gain expertise in performing key ultrasound-guided nerve blocks in emergency settings, integrating hands-on training with evidence-based techniques to optimise patient safety, improve pain management, and enhance procedural efficiency.

Qualifications: MBBS, FRCEM (London), Dip T&O

- University of Manchester, CCT-EM - UK, CCP-EM (Hons) - London Global Emergency Medicine.

Clinical Interests: ATLS, APLS, ALS, FAMUS, HALO procedures, PoCUS / EMUS, USGRA,

Ultrasound-guided emergency interventions in the ED.

The programme comprises a total of 100 hours of study, including 50 hours of consultant-led learning and 50 hours of self-directed learning, delivered through a blended learning model combining online and face-to-face sessions.

Module 1: Basics of Ultrasound

This module covers the physics of ultrasound, including sound waves, frequency, resolution, and artifacts. Participants will learn ultrasound machine setup, probe selection, and image optimization, along with ultrasound anatomy and sonoanatomy relevant to nerve blocks. Needle visualization techniques and ergonomic considerations are also addressed.

Module 2: Ultrasound-Guided Vascular Access and Needling Technique

Participants will understand indications and contraindications for ultrasound-guided vascular access. The module includes real-time vascular cannulation, sterile technique, infection control, needle handling (in-plane vs out-of-plane approaches), and troubleshooting common difficulties.

Module 3: PENG (Pericapsular Nerve Group) Block

This module focuses on the indications and anatomy of the PENG block, sonoanatomy landmarks, probe placement, step-by-step block technique, and clinical applications and limitations.

Module 4: Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block (FICB)

Learners will explore the differences between suprainguinal and infrainguinal approaches, anatomical considerations, and sonoanatomy. The module covers ultrasound-guided techniques for both approaches and pain management applications in hip and thigh injuries.

Module 5: Popliteal Block (Common Peroneal and Tibial Nerve Blocks)

This module teaches the relevant anatomy and sonoanatomy of nerves at the popliteal fossa, ultrasound visualization of tibial and common peroneal nerves, stepwise technique for popliteal blocks, and clinical indications and monitoring.

Module 6: Ankle Block

Participants will learn the anatomy of ankle nerve branches, including posterior tibial, deep peroneal, superficial peroneal, sural, and saphenous nerves. Ultrasound identification of each nerve, multi-injection techniques, and applications in foot and ankle injuries are covered.

Module 7: Erector Spinae Plane (ESP) Block

This module covers the anatomy of the erector spinae muscles and surrounding structures, ultrasound-guided techniques for thoracic ESP blocks, and applications in thoracic and abdominal pain relief.

Module 8: Serratus Anterior Block

Learners will understand the relevant anatomy and sonoanatomy of the thoracic wall, ultrasound-guided approaches for the serratus anterior plane block, and clinical indications such as rib fractures and chest wall pain.

Module 9: Supraorbital, Supratrochlear, and Infraorbital Nerve Blocks

This module focuses on facial sensory nerve anatomy and landmarks, along with techniques for block placement in facial pain and trauma.

Module 10: Auricular Block

Participants will study the anatomy of the auricular nerves and their innervation zones, identification and technique for performing the block, and indications including ear trauma and procedural analgesia.

As Christ College London embarks on this groundbreaking initiative, the institution remains committed to delivering education that makes a lasting impact. The Academic Programmes awarded by the awarding bodies of Christ College London stands as a proof to this dedication, promising to shape the future of emergency medicine professionals and contribute significantly to advancements in healthcare practices.