Faculty Bibliography

Epidural catheters have evolved during the past several decades, as clinicians and manufacturers have sought to influence the quality of analgesia and anesthesia and reduce the incidence of catheter-related complications. This evolution has allowed a transformation from single-shot to continuous-infusion techniques and resulted in easier passage into the epidural space, more extensive medication distribution, and ultimately, improved patient satisfaction. Particular catheter features, including the materials used, tip design, and orifice number and arrangement, have been associated with specific outcomes and provide direction for future development.

The obstetrician-gynecologist is often solely responsible for analgesia/sedation and regional blocks during office-based and outpatient procedures. The American Society of Anesthesiologists guidelines for the provision of analgesia/sedation for nonanesthesiologists provide helpful recommendations to maximize patient safety during office-based and outpatient procedures. This article provides a review of the fundamentals of sedation/analgesia, monitored anesthesia care, and local anesthetics.