title: Paravertebral blocks.
abstract: Paravertebral blocks have been demonstrated to represent an interesting alternative to epidural, especially for the management of perioperative and trauma pain. Initially performed mostly as single-shot blocks for breast surgery, thoracotomy, and hernia repairs in adults and children, presently these blocks are also used for placement of a paravertebral catheter, either unilateral or bilateral. Although complications associated with the performance of these blocks are infrequent, the use of ultrasound-guided approaches, which allow performing the block under direct vision, is becoming the standard in most groups performing these blocks routinely.
authors.affiliation: Division of Acute Interventional Perioperative Pain and Regional Anesthesia, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Presbyterian-Shadyside Hospital, PA 15232, USA. chelje@anes.upmc.edu
authors.forename: Jacques E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Chelly
mesh_terms: D015360:Analgesia, Epidural; D000779:Anesthetics, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D059408:Pain Management
chemical_list: D000779:Anesthetics, Local