Answer
The following are steps for the extraoral approach:
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During the extraoral technique, the needle is in very close proximity to the facial artery. Because of this proximity, avoid adding vasoconstrictors to the anesthetic agent.
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Use the previously described landmarks to locate the infraorbital foramen.
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Prepare the skin overlying the infraorbital foramen with povidone iodine (Betadine) and sterile gauze.
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Using sterile technique, insert the needle through the skin, the subcutaneous tissue, and the quadratus labii superioris muscle (see image below).
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Aspirate to ensure the needle is not within a vessel. The facial artery and vein are very close to the needle in this position.
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Inject the anesthetic solution. The infiltrated tissue appears swollen.
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Firmly massage this area for 10-15 seconds.
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Infraorbital nerve.
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Area of anesthesia for infraorbital nerve block.
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Intraoral approach for infraorbital nerve block.
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Technique for extraoral infraorbital nerve block.
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Infraorbital nerve block, intraoral approach.