At The Ottawa Hospital, your comfort and safety are our priority. We offer different types of anesthesia to help manage pain and keep you comfortable during surgery. This guide explains Regional Anesthesia \u2014 how it works, the options available, and what you can expect before, during, and after your operation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After your surgery is scheduled, you\u2019ll meet your anesthesiologist \u2014 either at a Pre-Assessment Clinic visit or on the day of surgery. Together, you\u2019ll decide which anesthesia option is best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We use three main types of anesthesia, sometimes in combination:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Regional anesthesia involves injecting a numbing medicine (local anesthetic) near your nerves. This temporarily blocks feeling in a specific part of your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It can be used alone or with other types of anesthesia to help control pain during and after surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The medication is injected close to the nerves that carry sensation from the surgical area. This numbs the region, providing pain relief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In some cases, a small tube called a catheter<\/strong> is placed near the nerve to deliver numbing medication for several days \u2014 either while you\u2019re in the hospital or at home using a small portable pump.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At The Ottawa Hospital, we provide several types of regional anesthesia, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n All our anesthesiologists are trained in spinal and epidural techniques. We also have a specialized Regional Anesthesia Team with advanced training in nerve blocks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our team has completed fellowships at world-renowned institutions like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n One team member received the Canadian Anesthesiologists\u2019 Society Clinical Teacher Award<\/strong> for excellence in regional anesthesia education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Our former fellows now lead regional anesthesia programs across Canada and around the world, including Halifax, Vancouver, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Australia, and the UK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll meet with your anesthesiologist at your Pre-Assessment Clinic appointment or on surgery day. They\u2019ll explain your options, answer questions, and help you choose whether regional anesthesia is right for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The anesthesiologist will numb the area of your body having surgery. You might also receive medication to help you relax or sleep lightly. Some surgeries may use regional anesthesia alone or combined with general anesthesia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The numbness will gradually wear off over a few hours. If a nerve catheter is in place, it may remain for a day or two to help manage pain while you recover. You\u2019ll receive clear instructions on how to care for it and who to call if you have concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Regional anesthesia is very safe, but like any procedure, it has potential side effects and risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your anesthesiologist will review these with you before your procedure.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBenefits of Regional Anesthesia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Types of Regional Anesthesia We Offer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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About Our Regional Anesthesia Team<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Awards & Recognition<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What to Expect<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Before Surgery:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
During Surgery:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
After Surgery:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Are There Any Risks?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Common and temporary effects:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Rare risks:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n