J Korean Med Assoc.  2025 Jan;68(1):20-28. 10.5124/jkma.2025.68.1.20.

Regional anesthesia for rapid recovery after orthopedic surgery

• Kim MK
• Kim JS
• Kang H

• KMID: 2564284
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2025.68.1.20

Abstract

Background
Orthopedic surgery is becoming increasingly common, particularly among older adults, due to population aging and the rising incidence of degenerative conditions. Older patients frequently have multiple comorbidities, which elevate the risk of surgical complications. Effective pain management is crucial in facilitating recovery and reducing the likelihood of postoperative complications. This review examines the role of regional anesthesia in optimizing recovery outcomes for orthopedic patients.
Current Concepts
Regional anesthesia significantly reduces opioid consumption, which in turn mitigates side effects such as nausea, vomiting, respiratory depression, and urinary retention. It also promotes early mobilization, which is crucial for functional recovery, and helps prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis and muscle atrophy. Advanced techniques like local infiltration analgesia and motor-sparing blocks offer effective pain relief while preserving muscle strength. This not only facilitates faster rehabilitation but also reduces the length of hospital stays. These advantages underscore the importance of regional anesthesia in improving surgical outcomes and expediting recovery.
Discussion and Conclusion
Regional anesthesia is crucial in improving recovery after orthopedic surgery by providing effective pain management, facilitating early mobilization, and minimizing complications. It is essential to customize the anesthetic approach based on the specific surgical procedure and the patient’s overall health to achieve optimal outcomes.

Keyword

Analgesia; Enhanced recovery after surgery; Orthopedic procedures; Pain management; Regional anesthesia; 진통; 수술 후 회복 향상; 정형외과 수술; 통증관리; 부위 마취