Peripheral nerve injuries associated with anaesthesia

Peripheral nerve injuries can occur at any time during the peri-operative p eriod. The long-term disability that results may have serious consequences for a patient. The incidence of peri-operative nerve injuries can be reduce d by anaesthetists being aware of their causes and pathophysiology. This re view article aims to explain the incidence, pathophysiology and medicolegal implications of peri-operative nerve injury and provides suggestions as to how they may best be avoided.