Not many anesthesiologists have had the opportunity during their training to

learn all available regional procedures and their indications/contraindications.

Mastering these techniques requires both regular practice and experience and this

is the gap this manual attempts (and succeeds) to fill in since it offers the reader a

considerable amount of practical information on regional anesthesia resulting from

the experience of a team of experienced anesthesiologists, some working in public

hospitals whilst others work in private practice, but all driven by the same faith in

the value of clinical practice combined with the quest of excellence for their

patients. Since this manual was written by anesthesiologists practicing - not only

believing in - regional anesthesia, it will gain a large audience, at least as large as

that of the web site ALRF the same team has successfully developed over the

years. Writing the preface of a book is a honor that can occasionally be difficult to

take on but in the case of this book it is pure joy, even a pride to be associated to

such a high quality work by those for whom I feel like an elder brother. With such a

practical book in hands, there is no doubt that regional anesthesia will still further

radiate and improve the quality of care for all patients, whatever their ages.

Bernard Dalens