Types of Nerve Blocks

A single injection nerve block is a one time injection of numbing medication around the nerve.  The duration of the block depends on the type of medication used, the area of the block and your personal response to the medication.  It should relieve some of the pain induced by surgery and it will last between 3 hrs to 18 hrs in general. Sometimes it last longer and this is normal.  The block may NOT take away all of the pain.  If you feel discomfort it is okay to take additional pain medications after receiving a single injection nerve block.  It will wear off eventually.  You may need to start your oral pain medications before the nerve block (numbness) wears off completely.

A continuous nerve block is done with the placement of a small flexible tube (catheter) placed next to the nerves.  The catheter is then connected to a pump to keep the area numb for 2-3 days usually.  Before leaving the recovery room the catheter will be connected to a portable infusion pump. Sometimes the infusion is continued at home.  The nurses will instruct you and your caregiver regarding the care and removal of the catheter at home. Your catheter and pump will not eliminate all of the pain after surgery so it is important to supplement with your prescribed pain pills as directed by your provider.

Surgery of the lower extremity may require one or 2 blocks.  Depending on the area that is blocked, part of your leg or sometimes your entire leg may be numb after surgery.  You may have weakness in your leg until the numbness wears off.  For surgeries of the ankle, foot or toes, the numbness will be below the knee only.

Surgery on your chest or abdomen may require 1 or more injections. It will numb a limited area where you are experiencing pain and does not affect the ability to move the arm or leg. The injection can be close to the spine itself or on the abdomen itself. Sometimes we place the block closer to the spinal and it is called an epidural or spinal anesthesia. Like the peripheral nerve block it can be done as a single injection or with a catheter to provide pain control

For several days and those are only used when you are staying in the hospital.

A member of our team will follow up with you after surgery.

• Numbness of the limb is normal and can last between 3 – 24 hours depending on the medication used. Sometimes patients do not like the feeling of being numb in a limb.
• Use caution with the numb limb.  Wear a sling, brace and use crutches as directed.  A numb leg or arm will put you at a higher risk of falling.  Ask for help at home.
• Do not lay on anything hard or sharp and protect the numb limb from injury.
• If you are having discomfort it is okay to take pain medication by mouth as directed by your surgeon.
• If you feel the nerve block is beginning to wear off, take your oral pain medication.
• If you have new numbness or the block hasn’t’ worn off after 24 – 36 hours please let us know.
• If you have numbness around the mount, ringing in the ears, metallic taste, seizures, or dizziness, stop the pump and call 911 or go to your closest Emergency Department.