Complications of peripheral nerve block

BACKGROUND: Peripheral nerve block (PNB) is now widely performed in operating room by anesthesiologists. PNB is associated with multiple benefits compared to general anesthesia, but we should consider the complications of PNB. METHODS: Case reports about complications related to PNB are reviewed. Case reports related to neuraxial blocks and ophthalmologic blocks are excluded. RESULTS: 115 case reports are included. There are most reports related to the interscalene brachial plexus block when it was classified in the category of block, and most reports are related to neuropathy in terms of complications. There are only 3 reports in which ultrasound guided PNB is performed. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound guided PNB has become very popular now, and it has many potential advantages, such as direct visualization of nerves and anatomical structures, and direct and indirect visualization of spread of local anesthetics during injection with the possibility of repositioning the needle in case of maldistribution of local anesthetic. The half of these complications can be prevented by use of ultrasound guided PNB.