Final answer:
Interscalene block is a regional anesthesia technique used for shoulder surgeries. Contraindications include allergies, infections, and abnormalities in blood coagulation. The catheter is removed when pain is adequately controlled or no longer necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
Interscalene block is a regional anesthesia technique used to block the nerves in the brachial plexus in the neck. It is commonly used for surgeries involving the shoulder and upper extremities. Some indications for an interscalene block include shoulder surgeries, such as rotator cuff repair or shoulder arthroscopy.
However, there are certain contraindications to consider, such as patients with allergies to local anesthetics, infections near the injection site, or abnormal blood coagulation. In addition, patients with pre-existing neurological deficits in the upper extremities or who are unable to cooperate due to mental status changes may not be suitable candidates for this block.
As for when to pull the catheter, it typically depends on the surgical procedure and the expected duration of post-operative pain. The catheter is often removed when the patient's pain is adequately controlled with oral pain medications or when the surgeon determines it is no longer necessary for pain management. It is important to consider the risks of maintaining the catheter, such as infection or nerve injury, and balance them with the potential benefits.