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Updated: May 26, 2026
03:14
Spinal Sonography for Ultrasound-Guided Lumbar Neuraxial Anesthesia
Published on: January 31, 2025
Recent advances in epidural analgesia.
Maria Bauer1, John E George, John Seif
1Department of Outcomes Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
Anesthesiology Research and Practice
|December 17, 2011
Summary
Epidural anesthesia, a central neuraxial block, offers significant perioperative benefits. Understanding anatomical, pharmacological, and technical factors is crucial for successful placement and minimizing complications.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neurosurgery
- Pain Management
Background:
- Neuraxial anesthesia encompasses central blocks (spinal, epidural, caudal).
- Epidural anesthesia is a widely used, versatile anesthetic technique.
- Studies demonstrate its potential to reduce postoperative morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of epidural anesthesia.
- To discuss factors influencing successful epidural block placement.
- To cover adult and pediatric populations, recent advances, complications, and anticoagulant use.
Main Methods:
- Review of anatomical, pharmacological, immunological, and technical aspects.
- Discussion of recent advancements in epidural anesthesia.
- Analysis of rare complications and anticoagulant guidelines.
Main Results:
- Successful epidural block placement depends on multiple factors.
- Knowledge of these factors is essential for maximizing benefits and minimizing risks.
- Recent advances and specific population considerations are highlighted.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing epidural anesthesia requires understanding its multifaceted aspects.
- Awareness of potential complications and anticoagulant interactions is vital.
- This review provides essential knowledge for safe and effective epidural block placement.
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