Nerve blocks are not used in every operation, and the decision depends on both the procedure and the patient’s overall health. However, their use has expanded as doctors have become more experienced with the technique.
They are widely used in musculoskeletal surgeries, including operations on the shoulder, arm, hand, hip, knee, leg, foot, and ankle. About a decade ago, nerve blocks became common for hip and knee replacements, which was particularly important for older adults who may face higher risks from general anesthesia.
Research shows that patients who receive nerve blocks for musculoskeletal surgery often take less pain medication, not only in the hospital but also after they return home, Dr. Li says.
For spine surgery, doctors at Yale have also been using a type of regional nerve block called an erector spinae plane block.
“We know these are among the most painful procedures,” Dr. Li says. “The block does not take away all the pain, but it helps patients feel better, sleep better, get up sooner, and move around more.”
In recent years, nerve blocks have also been used alongside general anesthesia to improve pain control in other procedures, including gynecologic surgeries such as hysterectomy, operations involving the kidney or bladder, and some cardiac procedures such as coronary artery bypass or mitral valve repair.
