Complications of peripheral nerve blocks

The use of peripheral nerve blocks for anesthesia and analgesia is rapidly expanding. Although these techniques have many benefits, they are not without risk. This article reviews complications related to performance of various regional anesthesia techniques. Specific attention is given to brachial plexus, intercostal, lumbar plexus and lower extremity blocks. A review of the current literature illustrates common as well as infrequently described complications. Finally, suggestions for decreasing the risk of developing complications while performing blocks are provided.