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Anaesthesia · Paediatric anaesthesia: penile block
Sample itemA dorsal penile nerve block is used for circumcision in a child. Where is the local anaesthetic deposited?
Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.
The answer and the reasoning
C. In the subpubic space below the symphysis pubis
The dorsal nerves of the penis, branches of the pudendal nerve, pass through the subpubic space beneath Scarpa's fascia. Local anaesthetic injected here, or as a ring block at the base, gives analgesia for circumcision. Adrenaline is avoided because the penis has end-arterial blood supply.
Option by option
A. Into the corpus cavernosum
Intracavernosal injection is dangerous and not used for analgesia.
B. Directly into the glans
Injecting at the glans risks vascular injury and is not the standard approach.
C. In the subpubic space below the symphysis pubis (correct)
Correct. The subpubic space contains the dorsal penile nerves.
D. Into the scrotal sac
The scrotum is supplied by different nerves.
Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.
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