[Locoregional anesthesia in ophthalmology: update]

Abstract

Regional anesthesia for ophthalmic procedures has changed significantly in the past ten years. Phacoemulsification for cataract surgery through corneal microincisions, soft foldable lenses and topical anesthesia simplify surgery such that most operations can be performed on an outpatient basis. Some anesthetic blocks are performed by either anesthesiologists or ophthalmologists, who should understand the advantages and disadvantages for each patient. This review discusses anatomical aspects of interest to the anesthesiologist, the main techniques used and anesthetic innovations, complications and certain controversies such as management of the patient who is taking medications that alter hemostasis, the withdrawal of hyaluronidase in some countries and the systematic ordering of tests before the procedure.