With regional anesthesia, also called local anesthesia, a part of your body is numbed for surgery or another procedure. Unlike with general anesthesia, you will remain awake, although you may be somewhat sedated with medication given as pills or an injection to relax you.
At Brigham and Women’s Hospital, our anesthesiologists are experts in the various types of regional anesthesia techniques, including spinals, epidurals, nerve blocks, local anesthetic injections and more. We will tailor a plan to meet your specific needs, taking into account the preferences of you, your surgeon, and your loved ones.
Benefits of Regional Anesthesia
The development of safe and effective local anesthetics has produced an alternative to general anesthesia for patients undergoing many different types of procedures. Regional anesthesia has fewer side effects and risks, and patients usually recover more quickly and return home sooner.
Spinal anesthesia is often used for genitourinary procedures and lower body procedures. Epidural anesthesia is often used during labor and delivery and for surgery involving the pelvis or legs.
After your procedure, our anesthesiologists are available during your entire hospitalization to help manage any pain and discomfort you may experience. Learn more about our pain management services.
