subarachnoid block: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

It depends on context. As a pathological condition (e.g., from a clot or tumour), it is serious and requires intervention. As a planned medical procedure (spinal anaesthesia), it is a standard, generally safe technique performed by trained specialists.

Both are forms of regional anaesthesia. A subarachnoid block (spinal) injects anaesthetic directly into the cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space, producing a rapid, dense block. An epidural injects anaesthetic into the epidural space outside the dura mater, often via a catheter for prolonged or adjustable pain relief.

During the administration of a therapeutic subarachnoid block (spinal anaesthesia), a local anaesthetic is used on the skin first. You may feel pressure, but the procedure itself is not typically painful. The result is a complete loss of sensation in the targeted area.

It is performed by a qualified medical doctor specialising in anaesthesiology (an anaesthetist in the UK, an anesthesiologist in the US), sometimes with the assistance of a nurse anaesthetist (in the US).

An obstruction or disruption of cerebrospinal fluid flow within the subarachnoid space around the brain and spinal cord.

Subarachnoid block is usually technical/medical in register.

Subarachnoid block: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsʌb.əˈræk.nɔɪd ˈblɒk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsʌb.əˈræk.nɔɪd ˈblɑːk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.