Abstract
There is substantial national and international variation in the conduct of anesthesia for ophthalmic surgical procedures. Ophthalmic regional anesthetic techniques include traditional needle-based blocks, such as intraconal or extraconal injections; sub-Tenon's blocks which can be accomplished with needles, but are more commonly performed with blunt cannulae; and topical anesthesia. Needle-based techniques are generally safe although rare, serious sight-and life-threatening complications may occur. In recent years, a renewed interest in sub-Tenon's and topical anesthesia has emerged. Currently there is no absolutely safe ophthalmic regional block. It is essential that those who are involved in the care of ophthalmic patients have a thorough knowledge of the approaches employed and their associated risks and benefits. This review article outlines the relevant anatomy, commonly used techniques and their safe performance.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 23-33 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Minerva Anestesiologica |
Volume | 74 |
Issue number | 1-2 |
State | Published - Jan 1 2008 |
Keywords
- Anesthesia
- Eye
- Nerve block
- Ophthalmology
- Orbit
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine