ISB

Medical abbreviation · Anesthesia

ISB stands for Interscalene brachial plexus block, an anesthesia abbreviation.

Peripheral nerve block injecting local anesthetic around the upper roots of the brachial plexus between the anterior and middle scalene muscles of the neck, giving dense anesthesia and analgesia for shoulder and upper arm surgery.

Example: ISB with 15 mL ropivacaine 0.5% for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Usage notes

Nearly all patients develop temporary paralysis of the diaphragm on the same side because the phrenic nerve lies close by, so the block is avoided in people with severe lung disease. Hoarseness and a temporary Horner syndrome can also occur. Lower volumes and alternatives such as the superior trunk and suprascapular blocks aim to spare the diaphragm.

Related abbreviations

More anesthesia abbreviations

• ESP – Erector spinae plane (block)
• EtCO2 – End-tidal carbon dioxide
• ETT – Endotracheal tube
• FOI – Fiberoptic intubation
• GA – General anesthesia
• GETA – General endotracheal anesthesia
• LA – Local anesthesia (local anesthetic)
• LAST – Local anesthetic systemic toxicity
• LMA – Laryngeal mask airway
• Mac – Macintosh
• MH – Malignant hyperthermia
• NMB – Neuromuscular blockade (blocker)

See all 34 anesthesia abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.