[Changing trends and regional anesthesia practices in Turkey]

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Regional Anesthesia
• Medical Education

Background:

• Ultrasound (US) has significantly influenced regional anesthesia (RA) practice, altering techniques and block selection.
• Current RA practice involves a mix of established and emerging nerve localization methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the most recent instruments and clinical applications in regional anesthesia within the country.
• To assess current RA techniques, nerve localization methods, and training satisfaction among practitioners.

Main Methods:

• A 10-question survey was distributed to attendees of the National RA Congress in 2011.
• The questionnaire collected demographic data, information on RA techniques, nerve localization methods, and training satisfaction.

Main Results:

• Spinal anesthesia was the most frequent RA technique; peripheral nerve blocks accounted for only 12% of practice.
• Axillary block was the most common peripheral nerve block, with nerve stimulation and ultrasound as primary localization methods.
• 58% of participants were dissatisfied with their RA training, and 50% had attended continuing medical education courses.

Conclusions:

• Central neuroaxial blocks remain the most performed RA procedures.
• Nerve stimulation is currently prevalent, but ultrasound (US) is increasingly adopted for nerve localization.
• There is a clear need for enhanced regional anesthesia training programs to address practitioner dissatisfaction.