Regional Anesthesia

Regional Anesthesia
causes a temporary loss
of sensation in a particular
portion of the body from
the action of local
anesthetics
do not cause
unconsciousness
Advantages
Avoidance of GA in at-risk patients
Good post-operative anesthesia
Avoids sedation, nausea and vomiting
Reduction in pulmonary thromboembolism
Reduced blood loss
Reduce stress response to surgery
Disadvantages
Takes longer to initiate than GA
Extra equipment necessary
GA still possible
Additional skill required
Management of awake or slightly sedated
patients