Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is one of the common perioperative complications, which can cause short-term sensory and motor abnormalities in patients, and even permanent sensorimotor disorders. Current studies emphasize that the incidence of perioperative PNI can be reduced through enhancing the awareness of perioperative peripheral nerve protection and implementing effective preventive measures. This paper reviewed the incidence, predisposing factors, injury factors, injury mechanism, preventive measures and treatment regimens of perioperative PNI, so as to provide reference to avoid PNI during clinical anesthesia.