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Cervical Plexus Nerve Roots — FRCA Final MCQ

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ModerateRegional AnaesthesiaCervical Plexus Nerve RootsFRCA Final

A 52-year-old man presents for elective carotid endarterectomy. His anaesthetist plans an ultrasound-guided intermediate cervical plexus block. The cervical plexus is formed from which nerve roots?

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Correct answer: BC1-C4

The cervical plexus is formed from the ventral rami of C1-C4. The superficial (sensory) branches emerge from the posterior border of sternocleidomastoid at Erb's point (C2-C4). The deep branches provide motor supply to the prevertebral muscles and the phrenic nerve (C3-C5). An intermediate cervical plexus block targets the fascial plane between the investing layer of deep cervical fascia and the prevertebral fascia posterior to SCM. Phrenic nerve palsy is a recognised complication of deep cervical plexus block.

Reference: RCOA – 2023 – Regional anaesthesia: head and neck; Pandit JJ – 2003 – Cervical plexus anatomy