Author(s): Megan Abbott, Amy Du

There are multiple features of orthopedic surgery that mandate special consideration. Orthopedic anesthesia requires mastery of a wide range of anesthetic approaches: general, neuraxial, and regional anesthesia. It is critical to know the indications, limitations, and potential complications for each type of anesthesia and surgery. The anesthetist also must be comfortable caring for patients who may range from young and completely healthy to those nearing the end of life with multiple medical comorbidities. These patients may require simple elective, major reconstructive, or palliative surgeries.