| Future direction |
Description |
Potential impact |
| Innovations in regional anesthesia techniques [51] |
Advances in nerve localization and imaging guidance (e.g., ultrasound, nerve stimulators) and the development of new local anesthetics and adjuvants. |
Improved precision and effectiveness of regional anesthesia techniques, reducing complications and enhancing patient outcomes. |
| Personalized medicine approaches [49] |
Tailoring anesthesia techniques based on individual patient profiles, tumor characteristics, and genetic markers. |
Enhanced patient-specific care, optimizing anesthesia effectiveness and minimizing side effects. |
| Research on cancer outcomes [20] |
Large-scale, randomized controlled trials to investigate the impact of regional anesthesia on cancer recurrence, metastasis, and survival rates. |
Better understanding of the role of regional anesthesia in long-term cancer outcomes and potential reduction in recurrence rates. |
| Multimodal approaches [52] |
Combining regional anesthesia with other analgesic modalities (e.g., systemic analgesics and non-pharmacological approaches) to manage pain and reduce opioid use. |
More comprehensive pain management strategies, minimizing opioid-related side effects, and improving recovery. |
| Technological advancements [53] |
Development of advanced regional anesthesia devices and techniques, such as automated delivery systems and integration with telemonitoring technologies. |
Increased safety, consistency, and patient monitoring capabilities, leading to better patient management. |
| Exploration of new indications [54] |
Expanding the use of regional anesthesia beyond traditional cancer surgeries to include other procedures and palliative care settings. |
Broader application of regional anesthesia, improving quality of life for more patients across different stages of cancer care. |
