ABSTRACT
The art and science of regional anesthesia progressed significantly during the last century, resulting in improved safety and increased success rates. The frequency of serious complications related to neural blockade continues to decrease and is similar, if not superior, to that of general anesthesia. Improved methods of neural localization and imaging such as fluoroscopy, high-resolution ultrasonography, and stimulating catheters have facilitated accurate needle and catheter placement. Most importantly, prospective randomized clinical investigations have found improved outcomes for patients undergoing major surgical procedures when regional anesthesia and analgesia are utilized.
