Upper Limb Nerve and Regional Blocks in Hand and Shoulder Surgeries (Narrative Review Article)

Karami, Nazli; Mahouri, Ali Reza; Hasani, Ebrahim; Afshar, Ahmad Reza

doi:10.22034/ijos.2025.222713

Upper Limb Nerve and Regional Blocks in Hand and Shoulder Surgeries (Narrative Review Article)

Document Type : Review

Authors

Nazli Karami

Ali Reza Mahouri

Ebrahim Hasani

Ahmad Reza Afshar

https://doi.org/10.22034/ijos.2025.222713

Abstract

Abstract
The brachial plexus block is a regional anesthesia technique primarily used for upper limb surgeries. This method involves injecting local anesthetics near the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that innervate the arm, temporarily blocking sensation and motor function in the affected area. It serves as an alternative or adjunct to general anesthesia, particularly benefiting patients with significant comorbidities or those at risk of complications associated with general anesthesia. Regional anesthesia plays a crucial role in orthopedic and outpatient anesthesia advancements by providing both intraoperative anesthesia and postoperative analgesia. Furthermore, with the advent of ultrasound technology, newer upper limb block techniques have been introduced for targeted anesthesia. These various approaches allow anesthesiologists to tailor pain management strategies based on the individual needs of patients and surgical requirements. Continuous improvements in ultrasound technology have enhanced the safety and efficacy of these blocks, making regional anesthesia a standard technique for pain management in upper limb surgeries.

Keywords

Nerve block

Regional block

Upper limb

Hand and shoulder surgeries

Subjects