Pen Device Localizes Nerves Through the Skin

A non-invasive percutaneous nerve-mapping device can help those administering peripheral nerve blocks quickly locate superficial nerves and identify the optimal angle and needle entry point before injection.

The Stimuplex Pen focuses a very small current from a nerve stimulator, and can have an incremental benefit when used in combination with ultrasound-guided nerve technology. It can be used to identify nerves up to 3 centimeters in depth and is effective in localizing the musculocutaneous, femoral, ulnar, radial, and median nerves for interscalene, axillary, mid-humeral, wrist, and femoral nerve blocks. The pen also identifies the ideal location for needle placement and the appropriate angle to introduce the needle. An additional benefit is decreased pain for patients undergoing block procedures by reducing needle manipulation. The Stimuplex Pen is a product of B. Braun Medical (Bethlehem, PA, USA).

"The ability of the Stimuplex Pen to quickly localize nerves important in the surgical field will enhance nerve block efficiency and thus make performance of regional anesthesia more attractive, particularly in rapid turnover environments,” said Roy A. Greengrass, M.D., an associate professor of anesthesiology at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN, USA).


Related Links:
B. Braun Medical
Mayo Clinic