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Introduction

‘Emergency’ within this chapter applies to anaesthesia that is given in immediate (within minutes of a decision to operate) or urgent (within hours of a decision to operate) procedures as classified by the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD).

The provision of emergency anaesthesia differs from elective anaesthesia in that it is required 24/7. The demands...

Introduction

Regional anaesthesia (RA) is an important component of anaesthetic practice. It includes neuraxial and peripheral nerve block techniques which may be used for either perioperative anaesthesia or analgesia, as well as other non-surgical indications such as chronic pain and traumatic rib fractures. The practice of RA has changed significantly, particularly over the past three decades.¹ The introduction of...