Facilitating Needle Alignment In-Plane to an Ultrasound Beam Using a Portable Laser Unit

This in vitro demonstration describes the potential use of a readily available laser-line unit to assist with in-plane needle alignment with the ultrasound plane in order to ultimately improve needle visibility during ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve block. It requires minimum specialized training and may allow for maximum flexibility with freehand needle insertions in a sterile fashion.