Regional anesthesia in surgery. Analysis of post-puncture complications: a review

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Authors: Kenan S. Niftaliev, Ivan Yuryevich Logoshin
Cited by: 0
References: 65

Abstract

A retraction notice for this article is posted at this link https://doi.org/10.17816/medjrf714014 This study aims to structure knowledge on the problem of regional anesthesia complications: its etiopathogenesis, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and approaches to prevention are examined. Regional anesthesia is a crucial component of modern perioperative protocols, providing effective analgesia, reducing opioid use, and accelerating recovery. However, this technique is associated with certain risks, ranging from mild and temporary to severe and persistent complications. Their occurrence is often associated with noncompliance with clinical guidelines and standards. The most common early complications include block failure, toxic effects of local anesthetics on the central nervous and cardiovascular systems, and unintentional puncture of adjacent structures. Total spinal anesthesia with epidural technique poses a serious but rare risk. Among neurological complications, transient neuropathies predominate, usually associated with surgical trauma, tension, or ischemia. Post-dural puncture headache after spinal anesthesia is a separate category. Infections (abscess, meningitis) and hematomas in the spinal canal are rare but carry the risk of irreversible spinal cord damage. The risk of complications is increased by technical difficulties, anatomical abnormalities, coagulopathy, and the patient's comorbidities. Strict aseptic technique, the use of instrumental guidance for precision, and controlled dosage of local anesthetics play a key role in prevention.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Anesthesia and Pain Management Anesthesia and Sedative Agents Intraoperative Neuromonitoring and Anesthetic Effects

Publication details

Journal / source
Russian Medicine
Volume
32
Issue
3
Pages
315–325
Publication date
9 March 2026
Language
EN