Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2026

Intra-Operative Neural Monitoring of Thyroid Surgery in a Porcine Model
Published on: February 11, 2019
Neurologic injury from axillary block anesthesia
1Milwaukee Hand Specialists, Wauwatosa, WI, USA.
Severe permanent neurologic injury from axillary block anesthesia, though rare, may be more common than previously thought. Transient issues are frequent but usually temporary, unlike devastating permanent injuries.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neurology
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Axillary block anesthesia is frequently used for hand surgery.
- Understanding its complication profile is crucial for patient safety.
Observation:
- Three cases of severe permanent neurologic injury after axillary block are presented.
- A survey of 800 hand surgeons revealed 21% encountered major neurologic complications.
Findings:
- 65% of surgeons reported minor, transient neurologic complications.
- Only 29% reported no major or minor neurologic complications.
Implications:
- Permanent neurologic injury from axillary block, while rare, may be underestimated.
- Transient neurologic issues are common but typically resolve.
- The risk of permanent injury warrants careful consideration in anesthetic choices.
Related Concept Videos
Local Anesthetics: Differential Sensitivity of Nerve Fibers
Local Anesthetics: Adverse Effects
Once absorbed into the systemic circulation, local anesthetics can affect the organs that depend on the functioning of sodium...
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Surface, Infiltration, and Conduction Block Anesthesia
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Spinal Anesthesia
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Intravenous Regional Anesthesia
One of the advantages of...
Spinal Nerves: Plexus I
The Cervical Plexus
The cervical plexus, formed by the anterior rami of the first four...

