Updates on neurologic complications in pediatric regional anesthesia

Regional anesthesia has grown in popularity as a multimodal approach to analgesia. However, some anesthesiologists are fearful of regional blocks in pediatric patients as most require general anesthesia. One of the most alarming complications is neurologic injury. While there are limited case reports regarding the devastating neurologic injuries in pediatric patients, review of large databases has shown a level of safety in pediatric regional anesthesia that is comparable to that in adult patients. This review aimed to provide an update on the relevant literature regarding neurologic complications and the safety of regional blocks in pediatric patients. These large data sets have confirmed that regional anesthesia is a useful and safe modality in pediatric patients.