There are multiple features of orthopedic surgery that mandate special consideration. Orthopedic anesthesia requires mastery of a wide range of anesthetic techniques: general anesthesia, neuraxial anesthesia, 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 throughout many age ranges, who may range from young and completely healthy to nearing the end of life with multiple medical comorbidities. These patients may require simple elective surgery, major reconstructive surgery, or palliative surgery.