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Regional Anesthesia

Table of Contents


Overview

Regional anesthesia is the use of medicines to block pain from an area of the body such as an arm or a leg or the belly. It's a safe way to relieve pain during a procedure. It's often used with medicines to relax you or make you fall asleep.

It can also help relieve pain after surgery. And it may reduce your need for other pain medicine after surgery.

This type of anesthesia can be used for many procedures. These include hand or foot surgeries. It may also be used for total joint replacements of the knee, hip, or shoulder. It may also be used during childbirth.

Types of regional anesthesia

The main types are:

How to prepare

You will get a list of instructions to help you prepare. Your anesthesia specialist will let you know what to expect when you get to the hospital, during the surgery, and after.

You'll be told when to stop eating and drinking.

If you take medicine, you'll be told what you can and can't take before surgery.

You'll be asked to sign a consent form. The form says that you know the risks of anesthesia. Before you sign, your specialist will talk with you. You'll discuss the best type for you. And you'll learn the risks and benefits of that type.

Many people are nervous before they have surgery. Ask your doctor about ways to relax before surgery.


Credits for Regional Anesthesia

Current as of: June 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
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