Advancements in regional anesthesia and pain management techniques are ushering in a new era for modern medicine. In the past, health insurance policies tied reimbursement amounts to the type of anesthesia used, creating a bias toward general anesthesia. However, with recent developments, regional anesthesia now enables precise and routine upper and lower limb surgeries, as well as certain trunk procedures, without the need for intubation. This technique not only improves patient safety and comfort but has also become a cornerstone of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS), significantly reducing the use of opioids and their associated side effects, thereby accelerating postoperative recovery.
At the same time, the global demand for carbon reduction cannot be ignored. Following the United Nations Climate Change Conference's goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, promoting ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia as a substitute for certain general anesthesia methods has emerged as a practical approach to reducing the carbon footprint of surgeries. This shift represents a meaningful contribution to global sustainability efforts.
In addition to its environmental benefits, regional anesthesia demonstrates unique value in the context of modern conflict and warfare. In war zones where traditional general anesthesia equipment may be unavailable, ultrasound- or nerve stimulator-guided peripheral nerve blocks offer a practical solution for performing surgeries without anesthesia machines. Moreover, this approach avoids the risk of low blood pressure or shock often associated with neuraxial blockade in cases of traumatic bleeding. For example, anesthesiologists at several medical centers in Japan routinely use this technique as the mainstay of anesthesia for some upper and lower limb surgeries to stay prepared for potential wartime scenarios. Their experience underscores the importance of mastering ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia as a core skill for anesthesiologists in an era marked by global instability.
Beyond acute care, regional anesthesia also plays a vital role in managing chronic pain. Diagnostic perineural injections, a fundamental component of neuromodulation procedures, are critical for the success of this technique and their long-term pain relief outcomes. Furthermore, advancing regional anesthesia for peripheral tiny-neural applications lays the foundation for anesthesiologists to train in pain clinics, offering a gateway to more comprehensive pain care.
Given these compelling reasons, the development and promotion of ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia and pain management techniques are imperative. With strong support from Chung Shan Medical University and the collaboration of anesthesiology department heads from nearly all major medical centers, our society was established to meet this critical need. This initiative has been made possible through the dedication of passionate colleagues, united in their commitment to advancing medical practice and contributing to a sustainable future.