intrapleural anaesthesia
Last reviewed 01/2018
Intrapleural anaesthesia entails the infusion of a small volume of local anaesthetic agent into the intrapleural space via a catheter. The local anaesthetic diminishes the pain sensation from the area by action on intercostal nerves or nerves within the pleura.
The indications for intrapleural block include the reduction of pain after thoracotomy and upper abdominal operations. It has also been advocated for the reduction of pain after the insertion of a chest drain.