New technique developed for regional anaesthesia
Monday 9th August 2010
A hospital in Swansea has been trialling a new technique of pain relief in some of its operations.
The day surgical unit at Singleton Hospital has developed a nerve block - or regional anaesthesia - that targets all the nerves in an arm, for example, allowing patients to remain conscious throughout surgery and reducing recovery time.
Speaking to This Is South Wales, Dr Christian Egeler, consultant anaesthetist at the hospital, explained that he uses an ultrasound machine to find the precise spot to administer the regional anaesthesia in order to block the nerve.
The pain relief lasts for between 12 and 18 hours, he added, enabling patients to return home after their operation and sleep in their own bed.
People working as operation department practitioners may find the new technique of interest.
Currently, the hospital is only using regional anaesthesia for patients undergoing hand or arm surgery.
Dr Egeler told the newspaper that junior doctors are also being taught the technique and are "good" at the procedure.
Singleton Hospital is home to the School of Medicine building for the University of Wales Swansea.
Written by Angela Newbury
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