Local regional anaesthesia and pain therapy represent two areas of common interest for all physicians. This is a study in functional anatomy and general pharmacology, including familiarity with local anaesthetics and analgesics. It provides knowledge of the mechanisms of action, efficacies and side effects of the relevant drugs, and an appreciation of possible drug interactions to evaluate eventual toxic effects. Local regional anaesthesia and pain management are being used increasingly in diverse medical specialities, including those requiring manual dexterity. In contemporary medicine correct evaluation of the medical outcome becomes essential, especially in relation to the cost-benefit balance, not only in terms of the resources consumed, also and more importantly for the quality of life of the patient.
