Adjunct Medications for Peripheral and Neuraxial Anesthesia

Publication date: Available online 3 July 2018Source: Best Practice & Research Clinical AnaesthesiologyAuthor(s): Patrick Ifesinachi Emelife, Matt R. Eng, Bethany L. Menard, Andrew S. Meyers, Elyse M. Cornett, Richard D. Urman, Alan D. KayeAbstractRegional and neuraxial anesthesia have provided a safer perioperative experience, greater satisfaction, reduced opioid consumption, and reduction of pain while minimizing side effects. In this regard, ultrasound technology has aided clinicians in depositing local anesthetic medication in precise proximity to targeted peripheral nerves. There are a plethora of adjuvants that have been utilized to prolong local anesthetic actions and to enhance effects in peripheral nerve blocks. This manuscript describes the current state of use of adjuncts, e.g., dexmedetomidine, clonidine, epinephrine, etc., in peripheral nerve blocks. Additionally, evidence behind dosing and block prolongation is summarized along with patient outcomes and adverse effects and future directions.

Source: Best Practice and Research Clinical Anaesthesiology - July 10, 2018 Category: Anesthesiology Source Type: research