A neuropathy is one of the possible complications of regional nerve block.
Patient selection: regional nerve block
Criteria: new or worsening neuropathy following surgery in a distribution associated with the regional nerve block
Risk factors for postoperative neuropathy:
(1) pre-existing neuropathy
(2) trauma to the nerve, including stretching
(3) prolonged tourniquet time
(4) needle-related trauma (type of needle, multiple attempts, etc)
(5) pressure injury (higher injection pressure, positioning)
(6) chemical toxicity from local anesthetic or adjuvant
(7) ischemia
Transient nerve injury occurs with some frequency, while long-term damage is infrequent.
