Superior cluneal nerve block for treatment of buttock abscesses in the emergency department

Abstract

Background: The buttock is a common location for cutaneous abscesses among patients presenting for emergency department care. Procedural pain management sufficient to permit adequate incision and drainage often requires moderate sedation or general anesthesia.

Discussion: We describe a patient with a buttock abscess who successfully underwent incision and drainage with a regional superior cluneal nerve blockade instead of moderate sedation.

Conclusions: Our experience suggests that superior cluneal nerve blockade may reduce the need for procedural sedation, expedite care, and reduce costs for some patients presenting with buttock abscesses.