Infra-orbital nerve block using alar base approach: A novel landmark and technique

Abstract

The infra-orbital nerve block is given to anaesthetize the anterior part of maxilla by depositing the local anesthetic agent in proximity of the infra-orbital nerve foramen. The two intra-oral approaches well documented in the literature are the ‘central incisor approach’ or the ‘bicuspid approach’. In 2011, Infra-orbital nerve block with extended coverage using the intra-oral ‘molar approach’ was employed. However, infra-orbital nerve block can pose a challenge in patients with no teeth. We have devised a novel landmark and technique for infra-orbital nerve block using the anatomical landmark alar base.

Keywords

• Novel landmark
• Infra-orbital nerve block
• Alar base approach