Michael Kissen
Director of Regional Anesthesiology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center
Los Angeles, CA
Favorite block:
❤️
My favorite nerve block is the one that works on the first pass while everyone in the room is watching. Unfortunately, that only happens when no one is watching. If I had to choose a specific block, it would be the paravertebral block because it’s basically thoracic epidural’s cooler, less needy cousin. It shows up, provides excellent analgesia, causes less hypotension, and doesn’t demand nearly as much attention. Plus I enjoy living just close enough to the pleura to feel alive.
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you at the beginning of your career?
💡
I wish someone had told me that the hardest part of a nerve block isn’t the needle placement—it’s finding a patient who can hold still, abduct their arm, turn their head, and stop telling you about their vacation. But on a more serious note, I wish someone had told me that regional anesthesia isn’t about becoming comfortable with needles—it’s about becoming comfortable being uncomfortable.
What is a non-medical hobby you’re passionate about?
🍼
I am addicted to working out, but I am passionate about spending quality time with my baby. I will do whatever it takes to make him laugh.
What would be your walk-up song as you enter the lecture hall?
🎵
Either "Real American" (the Hulk Hogan Theme Song) 😊 or "This is How We Do it" by Montell Jordan
What’s one thing attendees should come and talk to you about at the Summit?
🤝
One thing attendees can chat with me about is the importance of Regional Anesthesia in ERAS and enhanced discharge pathways. I am working with the higher ups at Cedars to push the boundaries of ERAS, through a program called "Cedar Sinai at Home".