[A Perspective View on Peripheral Nerve Block of the Future: Preface and Comments]

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pain Management
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Ultrasound-guided nerve blocks (UGNBs) have seen increased adoption since 2000 in Japan.
• Advancements in ultrasound technology and the availability of remifentanil have contributed to their rise.
• Concerns regarding opioid use for cancer recurrence post-surgery have driven interest in opioid-sparing techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the efficacy and application of UGNBs in various anatomical regions.
• To highlight clinical outcome data associated with UGNBs.
• To explore the specific limitations and future directions of UGNBs in anesthesiology.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and expert opinions on UGNBs.
• Analysis of clinical outcome data for UGNBs in different body parts.
• Discussion of multimodal analgesic techniques incorporating UGNBs.

Main Results:

• UGNBs are widely employed to reduce perioperative opioid consumption.
• Experts discuss the efficacy of UGNBs for upper extremities, thorax, abdomen, and lower extremities.
• Clinical outcomes and limitations of UGNBs are highlighted.

Conclusions:

• UGNBs are a key component of multimodal analgesia, aiming to minimize opioid use.
• Further research and discussion are needed to understand the full potential and limitations of UGNBs.
• The articles provide insights into the future trajectory of UGNBs in clinical practice.