Pain Clinic Emergencies

Abstract

The increasing recognition of the need to treat chronic pain has led to an increase in the number of interventional procedures performed on an outpatient basis, and consequently, a rise in the number of complications as well. Safe interventional pain management requires Pain specialists have a comprehensive understanding of how to perform a procedure as well as how to manage any acute complications. Though simplistic, an emphasis on prevention is the solution to avoiding a complication. This involves meticulous planning of the injection technique based on the relevant anatomy, thoughtful selection of doses and concentrations of medications, careful injection of the medications, and attentive monitoring of the patient. When prevention is not enough, preparation can be life-saving. Resuscitation equipment should be readily accessible, and physicians should be prepared to institute Advanced Cardiac Life Support protocols. Immediate recognition of the signs and symptoms associated with a vasovagal reaction, hypotension, hypertension, systemic local anesthetic toxicity, high spinal, pneumothorax, and anaphylaxis is paramount, as prompt treatment offers the best chance for a successful outcome.