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Updated: Apr 30, 2026

Author Spotlight: Enhancing Success of Ultrasound-Guided Neuraxial Anesthesia in Cases with Difficult Anatomy
Published on: January 31, 2025
Ultrasound and its evolution in perioperative regional anesthesia and analgesia
Edward R Mariano1, Zwade J Marshall2, Richard D Urman2
1Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Anesthesiology and Perioperative Care Service, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
Abstract:
Perioperative regional anesthetic and analgesic techniques have evolved considerably over the past four decades. Perhaps, the most impressive development in recent years has been the rapid adoption and widespread utilization of ultrasound (US) guidance to perform targeted delivery of local anesthetics and catheters in a consistent manner for postoperative pain control. This article briefly reviews the history of US in regional anesthesia and perioperative analgesia, the evidence basis for this practice, the clinical application of novel techniques and imaging modalities, and possible future technology and research directions.
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