Sub-Tenon's anaesthesia: a well tolerated and effective procedure for ophthalmic surgery.
OBJECTIVE
To report recent advancements with sub-Tenon's anaesthesia for ocular surgery, accentuating the efficacy and safety of this technique. Further clinical implications are reviewed with regard to its technique, indications, benefits, and reported complications.


RESULTS
Sub-Tenon's anaesthesia, a versatile and technically easy procedure to master, has gained popularity with both ophthalmic surgeons and anaesthetists. This block is achieving repute as the block of choice, providing anaesthesia as well as akinesia during ophthalmic surgery. As the technique has further evolved and novel cannulae introduced, increasing complications have been documented.


CONCLUSIONS
Currently, there is no absolutely well tolerated orbital regional block technique. However, well founded evidence appears to support sub-Tenon's block as a safer option. Sound knowledge of orbital anatomy, pharmacology of anaesthetic agents, and prevention of potential complications are therefore crucial to perform sub-Tenon's block effectively and safely.
Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. vswetha@ausdoctors.net
V Swetha E
VS
Jeganathan
V Prajna
VP
Jeganathan
D000772:Anesthesia, Local / Q000379:methods*; D000779:Anesthetics, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D003238:Connective Tissue; D006801:Humans; D019148:Neuromuscular Blockade / Q000379:methods; D013508:Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures; D009915:Orbit
D000779:Anesthetics, Local