Heidi, here is a little bit of information on Regional Anesthesiology from
http://www.hss.edu/anesthesiology-anest ... niques.asp ~ There are many advantages of regional anesthesia compared to general anesthesia. Regional anesthetics have been associated with less post-operative pain and less nausea. More importantly, a lower incidence of blood clots, less blood loss, and less of a stress response by the body have also been reported. Finally, many patients who have experienced both general and regional anesthetics often prefer the "regional" experience. Regional anesthesia is particularly appealing to patients undergoing orthopedic procedures. These procedures often involve the limbs and are associated with a significant amount of post-operative pain. For this reason, anesthesiologists at Hospital for Special Surgery have dedicated themselves to perfecting the art and science of regional anesthesia.
Of course there is more to regional anesthesia than placing a local anesthetic near a nerve. Some patients prefer to be awake during the surgery and some prefer to be asleep. Either is possible with regional anesthesia. The patient's preferences can be discussed with the anesthesiologist prior to surgery.
As with general anesthesia, patients can react differently to regional anesthetics. Therefore, from the moment the patient enters the operating room until the time the patient is comfortable in the recovery room, the anesthesiologist is with the patient for the entire time. This is done to ensure the anesthetic is working perfectly and the patient is calm, comfortable and stable.
As with any anesthetic, there are risks associated with the benefits of regional anesthetics. Fortunately; serious complications associated with regional blocks are exceedingly rare. Prior to performing a regional block the anesthesiologist will discuss common and uncommon risks associated with regional anesthesia at your request.