[Changing trends and regional anesthesia practices in Turkey].

OBJECTIVES: Introduction of ultrasound into regional anesthesia (RA) practice has resulted in important changes and developments in RA. These developments have had a major influence on the way of practice and choice of blocks. The purpose of this study was to present the most recent instruments used in RA and clinical applications in our country.

METHODS: A questionnaire consisting of 10 questions were distributed to the participants of the National RA Congress in 2011. Besides demographic data, RA techniques used and the method of nerve location was questioned. Participants were asked whether they were satisfied with their training in RA and if they participated in a RA course.

RESULTS: A total of 95 participants filled out the forms. Spinal anesthesia was the most commonly performed technique. Peripheral nerve blocks constitute only 12% of RA practice. Axillary block was the most commonly performed peripheral nerve block technique. The most commonly used nerve localization methods were nerve stimulation and ultrasound. The majority of the participants (58%) were not satisfied with their RA training and half (50%) participated in a course for continuing medical education.

CONCLUSION: Nerve stimulation is the most performed method, whereas US is increasingly becoming popular. The most commonly performed blocks are central neuroaxial blocks. All in all, there is still room for improvement in RA training.