Dr. Avani Vayeda Shah is a consultant anaesthesiologist in Vadodara with more than 4 years of experience in anaesthesia, practising at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Vadodara. She holds an MBBS and an MD in Anaesthesiology. Her focus is on peripheral nerve blocks to manage postoperative pain, with an emphasis on precise and effective anaesthesia care and on patient comfort during and after procedures.
A peripheral nerve block is a technique in which local anaesthetic is placed near a nerve or group of nerves to numb a specific part of the body, such as an arm, shoulder, leg or knee. The medicine blocks pain signals before they reach the brain. Nerve blocks may be given before surgery, during it, or afterwards, and are often guided by ultrasound to place the medicine accurately. Depending on the medicine used, the numbness can last for several hours, which gives a pain-free period after the operation.
Pain after surgery is expected, but it should be controlled, because good pain relief supports recovery. Patients who are comfortable can breathe deeply, move earlier, and rest better. Nerve blocks are one part of a wider plan that may also include oral or intravenous pain medicines. Combining approaches can reduce the need for stronger painkillers and their side effects, such as drowsiness and nausea. Tell your care team how you feel as the numbness wears off, because pain is easier to manage when treated early.
Nerve blocks can offer targeted pain relief, a lower need for strong painkillers and a more comfortable early recovery. Like any procedure, they carry risks, which your anaesthesiologist will explain. Temporary numbness or weakness in the area is expected. Bleeding, infection and, rarely, nerve injury are possible. Nerve blocks may not suit everyone, for example if you take blood-thinning medicines or have an infection at the injection site, so always give your full medical history. Never take extra painkillers without medical advice.
Nerve blocks may be considered for operations on the shoulder, arm, hand, hip, knee, leg and foot, as well as certain other procedures. Whether one is suitable depends on the surgery, your health and your preferences. Your anaesthesiologist will discuss the options with you before the procedure, and nerve blocks may be combined with general anaesthesia, spinal anaesthesia or sedation.
If you are planning surgery, a pre-anaesthetic check-up is an important step. Your anaesthesiologist reviews your medical history, earlier anaesthesia experiences, current medicines, allergies and test reports, and explains the plan, including pain relief after the operation. This is the time to ask questions and raise concerns. Clear communication at this stage helps make the procedure safer and recovery smoother.
Follow fasting and medicine instructions exactly as advised, since they vary from patient to patient. Tell the team about any supplements, allergies, smoking or alcohol use, and conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or breathing problems. Carry earlier reports, remove jewellery, and arrange for someone to accompany you home. After a nerve block, protect the numb limb until feeling returns, and follow the instructions you are given.
Searching for an anaesthesiologist in Vadodara? Dr. Avani Vayeda Shah is a consultant anaesthesiologist at Marengo Asia Hospitals. Her OPD is open Monday to Saturday, by appointment. If you are planning a procedure or would like to discuss your pain relief options, contact Marengo Asia Hospitals in Vadodara to schedule your visit. Please carry your prescriptions and earlier reports.
