​ANAESTHESIA FOR SHOULDER SURGERY

Shoulder surgeries — including rotator cuff repairs and shoulder replacements — are most commonly performed under a combination of general anaesthesia and a regional nerve block.

What to ExpectImmediately before your surgery, a light sedative will be administered through your intravenous (IV) cannula. Using ultrasound guidance, local anaesthetic is then carefully injected around the nerves in the neck (on the side of the surgery). This is known as an interscalene nerve block.

• The block takes approximately 10–20 minutes to take effect
• It results in temporary numbness and weakness of the shoulder, arm, and hand
• The nerve block typically provides pain relief for 8 to 24 hours after surgery

This technique works by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain and also affects movement signals, meaning your arm will feel weak and may be difficult to move until the block wears off.

Benefits of a Nerve Block

• Reduced or minimal pain upon waking from general anaesthesia
• Lighter general anaesthetic required, resulting in less drowsiness, nausea, or vomiting
• Decreased need for opioid pain medication after surgery
  
  

Risks and AlternativesThe risks, potential side effects, and alternative options will be discussed with you on the day of your procedure, ensuring you feel informed and confident in your care plan.