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Internal laryngeal nerve block — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardAnatomyInternal laryngeal nerve blockFRCA Primary

For awake fibreoptic intubation, local anaesthetic is injected just inferior to the greater horn of the hyoid, aiming to block sensation above the cords. Which nerve is targeted?

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Correct answer: A — Internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve

The internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve pierces the thyrohyoid membrane and supplies sensation above the vocal cords. The external branch supplies cricothyroid motor function. The recurrent laryngeal nerve supplies sensation below the cords and most intrinsic laryngeal muscles. Airway topicalisation is anatomically targeted to reduce coughing and laryngospasm.

Reference: RCoA Primary FRCA Syllabus; airway anaesthesia texts