thoracic epidural anesthesia
Also written as: TEA — thoracic epidural anesthesia
Regional anesthesia technique placing medication into the thoracic epidural space for pain control during and after thoracic surgery.
Full Definition
A regional anesthesia and analgesia technique where local anesthetics and/or opioids are administered into the epidural space at the thoracic level to provide pain relief for thoracic surgical procedures. This approach offers excellent pain control for thoracotomy and minimizes the need for systemic opioids, potentially reducing respiratory depression and other side effects. Thoracic epidural anesthesia can be used intraoperatively as part of a balanced anesthetic technique and continued postoperatively for several days. The technique requires careful placement at the appropriate thoracic level (typically T5-T8 for thoracic procedures) and monitoring for potential complications such as hypotension, motor blockade, or rare but serious neurological complications.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as TEA; specify thoracic level to distinguish from lumbar epidural.
In Context
- "Thoracic epidural anesthesia was planned for optimal post-thoracotomy pain management." — Anesthesia plan
- "The patient received continuous thoracic epidural anesthesia for three days post-lobectomy." — Post-operative orders