Abstract Providing continuous peripheral nerve blocks (CPNB)—also called “perineural local anesthetic infusion”—involves the percutaneous insertion of a catheter directly adjacent to the peripheral nerve(s) supplying the surgical site, as opposed…
Abstract Epidural opioids provide effective analgesia for postoperative pain. We discuss the use of both single-dose and continuous infusion for analgesia. In addition, the side effects of epidural opioids are…
Abstract Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is a common, effective method for achieving postoperative pain control. Classically, opioids are self-administered intravenously using a programmable infusion pump. However, other agents and modes of…
Abstract Opioids are the most commonly used medications for perioperative pain control. Many studies have evaluated the efficacy of several nonopioid infusions to decrease postoperative pain and minimize the use…
Abstract Postoperative pain remains a significant problem for patients and a challenge for anesthesiologists and acute pain medicine specialists. Despite advancements in the last two decades with increased use of…
Abstract For the survival and well-being of the organism, the detection of tissue-damaging or potentially tissue-damaging threats in the environment is essential. This critical function is served by the nociceptive…
Abstract Neurophysiologic studies are useful for the evaluation of patients with pain. This chapter describes electrical tests such as electromyography, nerve conduction testing, somatosensory evoked potential as well as quantitative…
Abstract Pain is an internal, subjective experience that cannot be measured by the use of physiologic markers or bioassays. The assessment of pain, therefore, relies largely (often exclusively) on the…
Abstract This chapter highlights the importance of a systematic, targeted, physical examination in the evaluation of patients with pain and describes each of the components in detail. General observations are…
Abstract Physical disability and impairment are growing public health concerns in the United States. Regardless of training, background, or specialty, practicing physicians will need to assess and opine about impairments…
