Ambulatory Anesthesia and Regional Catheters: When and How

Ambulatory Anesthesia and Regional Catheters: When and How:

Publication year: 2010
Source: Anesthesiology Clinics, Volume 28, Issue 2, June 2010, Pages 267-280
Jeffrey D., Swenson , Gloria S., Cheng , Deborah A., Axelrod , Jennifer J., Davis

Graphical abstract

Several clinical trials have demonstrated the superiority of continuous peripheral nerve block compared with traditional opioid-based analgesia. The ability to provide safe and effective continuous peripheral nerve block at home is an attractive alternative to opioid-based analgesia with its related side effects. In this article, the practical issues related to catheter use in the ambulatory setting are discussed. Techniques for catheter placement, infusion regimens, patient education, and complications are subject to many institutional preferences. In this review, special emphasis is placed on evidence-based techniques.