CONSENSUS STATEMENTS

The American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine is committed to gathering the best science and expert opinion available on topics related to the safe provision of regional anesthesia, analgesia, and pain management. Consensus conferences have been convened regarding the local anesthetic toxicity and neuraxial anesthesia and anticoagulation; a forthcoming conference to address Neurologic Complications of Regional Anesthesia will take place during the Annual Spring Meeting in 2005.

Practice guidelines or recommendations summarize evidence-based reviews. Consensus statements are designed to encourage safe and quality patient care, but cannot guarantee a specific outcome. Variances from recommendations may be acceptable based on the judgement of the responsible anesthesiologist. Finally, consensus management recommendations are subject to timely revision as justified by evolution of information and practice.