Abstract
The author reviews epidural block up-to-date. He focuses on controversial articles based on recent evidence and mentions the following; 1) epidural block technique: the medium for loss of resistance, intermittent epidural bolus compared with continuous epidural infusions, and the extent of blockade during epidural anesthesia; 2) severe complications after epidural block; 3) effects of epidural block on postoperative outcomes: postoperative analgesia, postoperative complications, and postoperative outcome; 4) effects of epidural block on clinical immunity： postoperative infection and postoperative cancer recurrence; 5) epidural steroids; 6) preventive effects of epidural block on chronic pain.
