Awake thoracic epidural anesthesia

Awake thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) is a regional anesthetic technique used for patients undergoing major thoracic surgery, such as thoracotomy, without the requirement for general anesthesia or endotracheal intubation. In the specific context of the Cairo University clinical trial, this intervention involves the administration of **bupivacaine** into the thoracic epidural space. This approach allows the patient to remain conscious and maintain spontaneous ventilation throughout the procedure, which may reduce the incidence of complications associated with general anesthesia, such as ventilator-induced lung injury and hemodynamic instability. The technique is primarily indicated for patients undergoing thoracotomy where avoiding the systemic effects of general anesthetics and muscle relaxants is beneficial.

Other names

Awake TEAThoracic epidural anesthesia