Regional anaesthesia

Abstract

This chapter discusses the techniques of regional anaesthesia and analgesia. It begins with an overview of regional anaesthesia and goes on to describe safe practice, and local anaesthetic agents. Techniques of locating nerves are then discussed, including ultrasound, and needle design is explored. Nerve blocks of the neck; upper limb; trunk; lower limb, and the neuraxis (spine) are described. Coagulation disorders, nerve injury and the management of local anaesthetic toxicity are discussed. The chapter concludes with a dermatome map and tables of recommended nerve blocks for particular operations.