Regional anaesthesia, particularly central neural block for obstetrics, has increased greatly in use and popularity over the last 30 years. However, a significant number of anaesthetists still find it difficult to acquire either a theoretical grounding in the subject or expertise in the techniques. This book is produced to help them to rectify this situation.

It is aimed at anaesthetists in training and those studying for the FRCA examination, as well as senior anaesthetists whose training was completed before the revival of interest in regional anaesthesia. Those already using regional techniques will find the book useful for extending and updating their knowledge.

As in the first two editions, the first part of the book gives an account (firmly based in recent research) of the theoretical aspects of regional anaesthesia. The second part describes the practical applications of the various methods.

The third edition continues to give a clear view on often misunderstood subjects such as the pharmacokinetics and systemic toxicity of local anaesthetic drugs, and the use of test doses as well as an assessment of the present place of spinal anaesthesia and an account of the features of some of the newer spinal agents.The contributing authors use the techniques which they describe in their daily practice and, because they come from a variety of backgrounds, the book is broadly representative of British practice. However, the editors have ensured that the guidance given and the opinions expressed are clear and unequivocal.

Contents

1. History of Regional Anaesthesia
2. Features of Regional Anaesthesia
3. Pain Pathways
4. Local Anaesthetic Action
5. Systemic Kinetics of Local Anaesthetics
6. Clinical Pharmacology of Local Anaesthetics
7. Pre-operative Assessment for Regional Anaesthesia
8. Management of Regional Anaesthesia
9. Anatomy and Physiology of the Vertebral Canal
10. Spinal Anaesthesia
11. Epidural Anaesthesia and Analgesia
12. Caudal Block
13. Regional Anaesthesia of the Trunk
14. Upper Limb Blocks
15. Lower Limb Blocks
16. Head and Neck Blocks
17. Ophthalmic Blocks
18. Obstetric Anaesthesia and Analgesia
19. Paediatric Anaesthesia and Analgesia
20. Acute Pain Management
21. Autonomic Blocks in Pain Management
22. Regional Blocks for Day Care Surgery
23. Regional Anaesthesia and Analgesia in the Elderly