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StatPearls, LLC

  • Analgesics, Opioid
  • Anesthetics, Local
  • Nerve Block
  • Pain
  • Ultrasonography

Intercostal Nerve Block

Intercostal nerve blocks remain an essential component of perioperative and trauma analgesia, offering targeted anesthesia of the thoracic wall while reducing the need for systemic opioids. This regional technique provides effective pain control for rib fractures, thoracotomies, and upper abdominal procedures by interrupting nociceptive transmission along the intercostal nerves. The procedure demands detailed knowledge of thoracic anatomy, particularly the course of the intercostal neurovascular bundle and its variable position along the inferior rib margin. Recent advances in ultrasound guidance have enhanced both accuracy and safety, enabling real-time visualization of relevant structures and precise local anesthetic placement. Evidence comparing intercostal and paravertebral blocks with thoracic epidural analgesia continues to evolve, supporting the selective use of intercostal blockade as a reliable, minimally invasive alternative for managing postthoracic pain. This educational activity provides a comprehensive, evidence-based review of the anatomical, pharmacologic, and technical principles that guide safe and effective intercostal nerve blockade. Participants develop greater procedural confidence through exploration of ultrasound-guided techniques, pharmacokinetic safety profiles, and strategies to prevent complications such as pneumothorax or local anesthetic toxicity. By engaging in interprofessional collaboration among anesthesiologists, surgeons, emergency clinicians, and pain specialists, learners enhance team communication and shared decision-making. This coordinated approach improves patient outcomes by aligning pain management strategies with surgical and postoperative care plans, ultimately promoting safer, more effective application of regional anesthesia in the treatment of thoracic and upper abdominal pain.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

AAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1 creditAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1 creditNursingUp to 1 creditPharmacyUp to 1 credit

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 1 pointABOS — Accredited CMEUp to 1 pointABA — Lifelong LearningUp to 1 pointABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 1 pointABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 1 pointABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1 pointABP — Lifelong Learning and Self-AssessmentUp to 1 pointABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1 point

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 11 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 1 credit
  • MOC · Up to 1 point
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left

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