Regional Anaesthesia
Regional Anaesthesia in Tirupati
Regional anaesthesia temporarily blocks sensation in a larger region of the body by targeting specific nerves or groups of nerves. The patient may remain awake, although sedation can be provided when appropriate.
At Tirupati Trauma Care Centre & Hospital (TTCH), regional anaesthesia is considered for selected procedures based on the patient's medical condition, surgical requirements and anaesthesia assessment.
Regional techniques include spinal anaesthesia, epidural anaesthesia and peripheral nerve blocks.
These techniques may be used for selected orthopaedic procedures, lower limb surgeries, trauma procedures and other operations.
The anaesthesiologist selects the appropriate technique after considering the procedure, patient's health, medications, allergies and other relevant factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is regional anaesthesia?
Regional anaesthesia temporarily blocks pain and sensation from a larger area of the body while the patient may remain conscious.
What are the different types of regional anaesthesia?
Common regional techniques include:
Spinal anaesthesia
Epidural anaesthesia
Peripheral nerve blocks
The appropriate technique depends on the procedure and patient.
Will I be awake during regional anaesthesia?
Usually, yes. However, sedation may be administered to help the patient relax or become drowsy when clinically appropriate.
What is spinal anaesthesia?
Spinal anaesthesia involves injecting local anaesthetic into the fluid surrounding the spinal nerves in the lower back. It produces temporary numbness and weakness in the lower part of the body.
What is an epidural?
An epidural involves placing medication near the spinal nerves through a catheter. It can provide regional pain relief and anaesthesia depending on the medication and clinical situation.
What is a nerve block?
A nerve block involves injecting local anaesthetic near a specific nerve or group of nerves to temporarily block sensation in the area supplied by those nerves.
Is regional anaesthesia safer than general anaesthesia?
Neither technique is universally safer for every patient. The appropriate choice depends on the procedure, medical condition, airway considerations, medications and overall health.
Can regional anaesthesia be combined with general anaesthesia?
Yes. In selected procedures, regional anaesthesia may be combined with general anaesthesia to provide additional pain control during and after surgery.
How long does regional anaesthesia last?
Duration depends on the type and dose of medication, technique used, treated area and individual patient factors.
Why choose TTCH for regional anaesthesia?
The anaesthesia team at TTCH evaluates each patient individually and selects an appropriate anaesthesia and pain management approach based on the surgical procedure and medical condition.