Regional anesthesia practice in Chile: an online survey

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a survey to profile the practice of regional anesthesia in Chile and determine the limitations on its use. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A link to an online questionnaire was sent by e-mail to anesthesiologists who were members of their national professional association (Sociedad Chilena de Anestesiologia). The survey was processed anonymously. Multiple choice items elicited responses concerning general demographic information, professional experience as an anesthetist, academic degree, hospital size, and the use of regional anesthesia in clinical practice (number of procedures and types of techniques). Finally, the questionnaire focused on the use of nerve and plexus blocks. RESULTS: A total of 209 completed questionnaires were received, for a response rate of 54%. Regional anesthesia was part of routine practice for 97% of the respondents; 68% reported that regional techniques were used in more than 30% of their caseload. Most performed neuraxial techniques: 98.1% were spinal blocks, 96.2% lumbar epidural blocks, and 66.9% thoracic epidural blocks. Routine use of peripheral nerve blockade was reported by 73.7%. Upper limb anesthesia was provided significantly more often than lower limb anesthesia (P=.011). The most common technique involved use of a peripheral nerve stimulator (64%). Skills were mainly acquired through residency programs (68.9%) and self-teaching (20.1%). Peripheral nerve blocks were never performed by 26.3% of the respondents; the reason given most often was lack of training. CONCLUSIONS: Although regional anesthesia is commonly used in Chile, neuraxial blocks remain the most frequently used types. Peripheral nerve blocks are used fairly often, mostly on an upper limb. Training should stimulate attempts to promote more widespread use of all forms of regional anesthesia.