[Risks when applying peripheral nerve blocks]

Abstract

The use of peripheral nerve blocks carries a small risk of most often temporary direct damage to the peripheral nerves. Due to lack of research and differing opinions regarding the potential of nerve blocks delaying the diagnosis of acute compartment syndrome, there is currently no consensus between anaesthetic- and orthopaedic associations regarding the use of peripheral nerve blocks in patients at risk of acute compartment syndrome. More interdisciplinary research is needed to inform and promote an evidence-based discussion of the subject, as argued in this review.