In the context of an anesthesiology procedure, what defines regional anesthesia?

Regional anesthesia is specifically defined by the targeting of a specific nerve or area of the body to provide pain relief. This type of anesthesia involves blocking sensation in a particular region while allowing the patient to remain awake and aware. It is commonly used for procedures on the limbs, lower body, and abdomen.

In contrast, sedation for the entire body involves a different method of anesthesia and does not specifically focus on a designated region. Topical anesthetics are applied to the surface of the skin or mucous membranes and do not involve a deeper nerve block. General anesthesia is intended for major surgeries and involves rendering the patient unconscious, affecting the entire body, rather than a specific area. The defining characteristic of regional anesthesia lies in its selective approach to pain management, which allows for targeted treatment while minimizing systemic effects.