Infection with Regional Anaesthesia
摘要
Infection is a rare but serious complication of regional anaesthesia, with risks increasing in patients with diabetes, immunosuppression, trauma, or prolonged catheter use. This article explores the incidence, risk factors, prevention, and management of peripheral nerve and neuraxial blocks-associated infections. Local infections can present with erythema, swelling, and fever, while systemic complications include meningitis and epidural abscesses. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common causative organism, with hematogenous spread, skin flora invasion, and breaches in aseptic technique being primary sources. Prevention strategies include strict hand hygiene, chlorhexidine skin preparation, sterile ultrasound covers, and timely catheter removal. Early recognition and multidisciplinary management are crucial to preventing severe complications such as neurological deficits or sepsis.