A long acting local anaesthetic is injected in the proximity of the nerve or group of nerves that supply the area affected by the surgery. This provides effective analgesia for up to 18 hours post surgery. This technique is not suitable for all types of surgery. Nerve blocks are used most commonly in orthopaedic procedures and also in some vascular and eye surgery. Your anaesthetist will discuss whether this technique is suitable for your surgery.
For more information please refer to www.allaboutanaesthesia.com.au