Regional Catheters for Outpatient Surgery-a Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pain Management
• Surgical Recovery

Background:

• Acute post-operative pain management traditionally relied on limited-duration local anesthetics and systemic medications like opioids and NSAIDs.
• Opioid use post-surgery is linked to significant risks including respiratory depression, central nervous system effects, and opioid use disorder.
• Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols emphasize multimodal strategies for optimal patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the history, current applications, and best practices of continuous catheter blockade (CCB).
• To discuss the clinical considerations, economic benefits, and potential complications associated with CCB.
• To highlight the role of CCB in improving post-operative pain management and patient recovery.

Main Methods:

• This is a review article.
• The review synthesizes existing literature on continuous catheter blockade.
• Information was gathered on history, applications, outcomes, and complications.

Main Results:

• Continuous catheter blockade significantly improves acute post-operative pain control and facilitates faster recovery in outpatient settings.
• CCB use is associated with decreased opioid consumption, reduced incidence of opioid-related adverse effects, and improved patient satisfaction.
• Regional catheters utilized in CCB are valuable tools for achieving ERAS endpoints, enhancing efficiency, quality, and safety in ambulatory surgery.

Conclusions:

• Continuous catheter blockade represents a significant advancement in post-operative pain management, particularly for outpatient procedures.
• The technique offers a superior alternative to traditional pain management, mitigating risks associated with opioid use.
• Wider adoption of CCB is recommended for its demonstrated benefits in patient outcomes, satisfaction, and safety.