Recent Advances in Epidural Analgesia

Neuraxial anesthesia is a term that denotes all forms of central blocks, involving the spinal, epidural, and caudal spaces. Epidural anesthesia is a versatile technique widely used in anesthetic practice. Its potential to decrease postoperative morbidity and mortality has been demonstrated by numero...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Maria Bauer, John E. George, John Seif, Ehab Farag
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Hindawi Limited 2012-01-01
Series:Anesthesiology Research and Practice
Online Access:http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2012/309219
Description
Summary:Neuraxial anesthesia is a term that denotes all forms of central blocks, involving the spinal, epidural, and caudal spaces. Epidural anesthesia is a versatile technique widely used in anesthetic practice. Its potential to decrease postoperative morbidity and mortality has been demonstrated by numerous studies. To maximize its perioperative benefits while minimizing potential adverse outcomes, the knowledge of factors affecting successful block placement is essential. This paper will provide an overview of the pertinent anatomical, pharmacological, immunological, and technical aspects of epidural anesthesia in both adult and pediatric populations and will discuss the recent advances, the related rare but potentially devastating complications, and the current recommendations for the use of anticoagulants in the setting of neuraxial block placement.
ISSN:1687-6962
1687-6970