From the Research
Cervical epidural anesthesia is a regional anesthesia technique that provides effective sensory blockade of the superficial cervical and brachial plexus, and is used for various surgical procedures, including carotid artery surgery, shoulder and upper limb surgery, and pharyngolaryngeal surgery. The technique involves inserting a catheter into the epidural space at the C7-T1 interspace, and administering local anesthetics, with or without opiates, to achieve the desired level of anesthesia 1. The benefits of cervical epidural anesthesia include decreased heart rate, cardiac output, and contractility, as well as decreased myocardial ischemia, with minimal respiratory effects 1. However, potential complications, such as bradycardia, hypotension, and acute ventilatory failure, require close monitoring of hemodynamics, respiratory rate, and level of blockade 1. In comparison to other regional anesthesia techniques, cervical epidural anesthesia has been shown to be effective in reducing the risks of major complications associated with carotid endarterectomy, such as stroke, stroke/death, death, and myocardial infarction 2. Overall, cervical epidural anesthesia is a valuable option for patients undergoing certain surgical procedures, offering excellent operative anesthesia and postoperative analgesia, while minimizing the risks associated with general anesthesia. Key considerations for the use of cervical epidural anesthesia include patient selection, careful technique, and monitoring for potential complications, as well as the potential benefits of reduced morbidity and mortality, and improved quality of life 1, 2.