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Electrophysiological Methods to Assess Peripheral Pain Block in an Anesthetized Rat
Published on: November 21, 2025
Complications of peripheral nerve blocks.
C L Jeng1, T M Torrillo, M A Rosenblatt
1Department of Anaesthesiology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA.
British Journal of Anaesthesia
|December 15, 2010
Summary
Peripheral nerve blocks are generally safe, but serious complications like nerve injury and local anesthetic systemic toxicity can occur. This review covers current knowledge on these rare but significant risks.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neurology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Peripheral nerve blocks are widely used for surgical anesthesia and analgesia.
- While generally safe, complications can have severe consequences for patients and clinicians.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on peripheral nerve injury from nerve blocks.
- To discuss complications associated with continuous peripheral nerve catheter techniques.
- To cover local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST).
Main Methods:
- Literature review of peripheral nerve block complications.
- Synthesis of data on nerve injury, catheter techniques, and LAST.
- Focus on current understanding and clinical implications.
Main Results:
- Peripheral nerve injury is a rare but serious complication.
- Continuous catheter techniques present specific risks.
- Local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST) is a critical concern.
Conclusions:
- Awareness and understanding of potential complications are crucial for safe practice.
- Minimizing risks involves proper technique and vigilance for systemic toxicity.
- Further research can refine safety protocols for nerve blocks.
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