[Sonoanatomy survey of the distance between the suface of the skin and sixth cervical transverse process]

ABSTRACT

One of interventional procedure in pain specialty is Stellate Ganglion Block. In this study we tried to show more on the sonoanatomy of the area, including the diameter of longus coli muscle and the distance between sixth cervical transverse process and the surface of skin. Obviously, understanding different anatomical locations can help to more successful block and avoid possible complications. This descriptive study was performed on 145 patients who were candidated for elective orthopedic surgery. After patients consented, neck sonography was performed. Demographic data were recorded. Neck circumference, diameter of longus coli muscle and the distance between sixth cervical transverse process and the surface of skin were measured. The average distance from the skin to the transverse process was 2.84 cm and a maximum of 3.7 cm was recorded. Anteroposterior diameter of Longus coli muscle was 0.76 cm, on average. The distance from skin to the transverse process was significantly correlated with body mass index and neck circumference in both sexes. Since the average distance from the skin to the transverse process was 2.84 cm therefore, without any pressure on the skin, inserting the needle more than 2.84 cm has to be with coution, and when it is inserted more than 3.7 cm, it is possibly going off the main path