Description
In this presentation, Alastair Younger discusses how regional anesthetics have transformed his surgical practice. He begins by outlining the evolution of regional anesthetics from merely augmenting general anesthesia to becoming a primary method of pain management that enhances efficiency in the operating room. The talk emphasizes the importance of specific applications and the benefits of regional blocks, including improved pain relief and reduced reliance on general anesthesia during surgeries.
Younger details a structured regional block program established in 2008, which has facilitated the creation of specialized procedure rooms and changed surgical workflows to allow for quicker turnover and less recovery room dependency. He notes that around 70% of his surgeries are now performed using only regional blocks.
The presentation covers various surgical techniques that can be effectively performed under regional anesthesia, including forefoot and hindfoot surgeries, while outlining cases that pose challenges using this method.
Younger highlights the importance of pre-operative education for patients to ensure successful outcomes when using regional blocks, addressing potential complications, such as increased pain post-surgery and the risk of neuropathy with certain additives. He concludes by advocating for the continued implementation of regional anesthesia and its integration into surgical practice as a significant advancement in patient care.
Overall, the presentation provides insights into both the practicalities and benefits of regional anesthetics in modern surgical environments, underscoring a collaborative team approach to improving surgical outcomes.