B Braun launches novel emergency department nerve block tray

B Braun Medical Inc. has introduced the first nerve block tray specifically designed for emergency departments, featuring advanced echogenic technology for enhanced ultrasound visibility. The innovation aims to improve acute pain management while reducing opioid use in emergency settings.

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Revolutionary technology enhances procedural precision

The Emergency Department Single-Shot Nerve Block Tray represents a significant advancement in regional anaesthesia for acute care settings. Launched in February 2025, this first-of-its-kind peripheral nerve block (PNB) tray incorporates B Braun’s Ultraplex® 360 Needle, which features an innovative echogenic 360° X-pattern design. This specialised needle, preferred by 91% of clinicians over competing options, is coated with a clear material that reflects more ultrasound waves back to the probe than previous iterations.

The enhanced visibility afforded by this design allows emergency physicians to perform nerve blocks with greater precision and confidence. By improving needle visualisation during the procedure, clinicians can more accurately target specific nerve structures while avoiding surrounding tissues, potentially reducing complications and improving efficacy.

Clinical benefits extend beyond pain control

Regional anaesthesia in emergency departments offers multiple advantages beyond immediate pain relief. Recent research published in JAMA Network Open (2024) demonstrates that ultrasound-guided nerve blocks provide a safe alternative to conventional opioid-based pain management protocols. This approach has been shown to improve patient satisfaction scores and reduce pain intensity measurements across various emergency presentations.

“Our goal is to improve outcomes in the emergency department with regional anaesthesia: a safe and effective alternative to opioid therapies that improve patient satisfaction,” said Peter McGregor, Director of Marketing, Pain Control at B Braun.

Economic and healthcare system advantages

Implementation of regional anaesthesia techniques in emergency care settings carries significant implications for healthcare delivery systems beyond individual patient comfort. Research by Cogan and Kandemir (2020) indicates that effective peripheral nerve blocks can help prevent the transition from acute to chronic pain states—a considerable concern in trauma patients.

The same research demonstrates measurable reductions in emergency department length of stay and overall in-hospital costs when appropriate regional anaesthesia techniques are employed. By incorporating these specialised trays into standard emergency care protocols, institutions may realise operational efficiencies while simultaneously improving patient outcomes.

Designed for emergency medicine workflow

The nerve block tray has been specifically engineered to integrate seamlessly into busy emergency department environments. Each tray contains all essential components required for single-shot nerve block procedures, eliminating the need for staff to gather supplies from multiple sources. This streamlined approach enables clinicians to initiate regional anaesthesia interventions promptly, potentially reducing time to pain relief for patients experiencing acute injuries or conditions.

B Braun’s position as the U.S. market leader in regional anaesthesia has informed the development of this specialised equipment. The company’s expertise in infusion therapy, pharmacy products, and patient safety has culminated in a solution that addresses the unique challenges faced by emergency medicine practitioners when delivering procedural interventions in high-acuity settings.

The Emergency Department Single-Shot Nerve Block Tray exemplifies B Braun’s commitment to developing innovative solutions that support clinicians in providing optimal patient care while addressing broader healthcare challenges such as opioid reduction initiatives.