Common Regional Anesthesia Blocks Used in Surgery

Indications and Contraindications of Brachial Plexus Blocks

Brachial plexus blocks are widely used for anesthesia and pain management in upper limb surgeries. They provide effective analgesia while minimizing systemic side effects.

Indications

• Upper limb surgeries including shoulder, arm, and hand procedures
• Postoperative pain management
• Chronic pain conditions affecting the brachial plexus

Contraindications

• Patient allergy to local anesthetics
• Coagulopathy or bleeding disorders
• Severe respiratory compromise
• Local infection at injection site

Techniques and Approaches

Common approaches include interscalene, supraclavicular, infraclavicular, and axillary blocks, each suited for specific surgical needs.

Complications and Risk Factors

Complications may include nerve injury, hematoma formation, and local anesthetic toxicity.