Progressive systemic sclerosis. Prolonged sensory blockade following regional anaesthesia in association with a reduced response to systemic analgesics.

The anaesthetic history of a patient with progressive systemic sclerosis is reported. On each occasion large amounts of systemic analgesics were required to control pain after operation. Regional nerve block produced prolonged periods of sensory anaesthesia. Both of these features are attributed to the effect of the disease process on the peripheral vasculature. It is suggested that advantage should be taken of the prolongation of sensory anaesthesia to help control postoperative pain in such patients.