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Published on: October 20, 2017
Regional anesthesia in diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Werner Ten Hoope1, Marjolein Looije, Philipp Lirk
1aDepartment of Anesthesiology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands bDepartment of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Regional anesthesia in diabetic neuropathy requires careful consideration due to altered nerve function. Diabetic neuropathic nerves are more sensitive to local anesthetics but harder to stimulate, with diabetes increasing infection risk when using catheters.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neurology
- Diabetology
Background:
- Diabetic polyneuropathy involves complex pathophysiologic mechanisms, primarily driven by chronic hyperglycemia.
- Hyperglycemia leads to inflammation, oxidative stress, microvascular changes, ischemia, and reduced axonal conduction velocity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on regional anesthesia in diabetic neuropathic patients.
- To provide clinical practice recommendations for this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies.
- Analysis of functional changes in diabetic neuropathic nerves.
- Evaluation of risks and benefits of regional anesthesia in this cohort.
Main Results:
- Diabetic neuropathic nerves show functional changes, increased sensitivity to local anesthetics, and higher stimulation thresholds.
- Diabetes is an independent risk factor for infection when using postoperative peripheral nerve catheters.
- Evidence on local anesthetic toxicity in diabetic neuropathy is equivocal.
Conclusions:
- Regional anesthesia management differs in diabetic neuropathy patients.
- Nerve stimulation may be more challenging, but local anesthetics may provide longer blocks.
- Infection risk with catheters necessitates vigilance; regional anesthesia is still viable for indicated patients.
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