Clinical applications of regional anesthesia in enhancing postoperative recovery: a narrative review

Background: Effective pain management during postoperative recovery is vital because it influences patient outcomes, reduces complications, and enhances overall satisfaction. Although opioids have been traditionally used, their adverse effects and dependency risks have prompted the exploration of alternative treatments. Intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) has gained attention because it allows for flexible, self- managed pain relief and reduces the side effects of opioids. Current Concepts: Regional anesthesia/analgesia selectively blocks pain in specific body parts. It is a promising method for multimodal pain management and enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs. This approach includes neuraxial (e.g., spinal and epidural anesthesia) and peripheral nerve blocking for localized pain relief. Ultrasound-guided techniques have improved the precision and safety of regional anesthesia, expanding their use across various surgical procedures. By targeting specific nerves, regional anesthesia/analgesia can effectively minimize opioid requirements and reduce the risk of adverse reactions. Discussion and Conclusion: Although regional anesthesia/analgesia offers significant advantages, it requires specialized equipment and expertise, with single-injection approaches limited by duration. Continuous catheter techniques and pharmacological adjuncts are being explored to extend analgesia and manage rebound pain. Regional anesthesia/analgesia not only minimizes opioid use but also mitigates dependency risks and postoperative complications. In conclusion, regional anesthesia/analgesia delivers targeted pain relief, reduces opioid reliance, and promotes faster recovery. Advances in technology continue to expand their applications, supporting safer patient-centered recovery pathways. Ongoing research will refine its role in comprehensive pain management strategies and enhance postoperative outcomes in diverse surgical populations.