Efficacy of Superficial Cervical Plexus Block as an adjunct to Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block in Selective Maxillofacial Surgical Procedures: A Prospective Clinical Study

Background: Achieving profound anesthesia in surgical procedures involving the mandibular angle region remains challenging due to overlapping sensory innervation from both the inferior alveolar nerve and branches of superficial cervical plexus. This study evaluates the effectiveness of superficial cervical plexus block (SCPB) as an adjunct to the inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) in selective cases involving the angle of mandible. Methodology: A prospective clinical study was conducted on patients undergoing minor maxillofacial surgical procedures in mandibular angle region. Intraoperative pain scores, onset of anesthesia, need for supplemental anesthesia, operator satisfaction, and postoperative analgesia were assessed. Results: A total of 10 patients were included in the study. Patients in the superficial cervical plexus block demonstrated improved intraoperative analgesia, lower intraoperative pain scores and reduced requirement for supplemental anesthetic injections. The onset of anesthesia was clinically faster, and the duration of postoperative analgesia was longer, no major complications or adverse effects were recorded during the study period. Conclusions: Superficial cervical plexus block appears to provide sufficient anesthesia and increased patient comfort in surgeries involving the mandibular angle. SCPB may be considered as an effective and safe alternative for improved perioperative pain control.