The relative and absolute contraindications to ilioinguinal block are the same as for other regional anaesthetic techniques (Table 1). The only specific contraindication is that of an incarcerated hernia, where there is a concern that the anaesthetist may damage the trapped bowel while performing the block.

Relative contraindications	Absolute contraindications
Coagulopathy	Lack of parental consent
Anticoagulants	Lack of child’s consent
Incarcerated hernia (specific to the ilioinguinal nerve block)	Allergy to LA
Systemic infection	Local sepsis

Table 1 Relative and absolute contraindications for inguinal nerve blockade