Axillary Brachial Plexus Block Application for Reduction of Radius Head Fracture and Elbow Dislocation which Developed after the Trauma in Vertical Wind Tunnels

Abstract

Introduction: To attain and maintain the level of training and skill necessary for the free-fall stage, vertical wind tunnels (VWT) are commonly used. Skydiving trials might result in extremity fractures. In order to manage pain, peripheral nerve blocks consisting Axillary Brachial Plexus Block (ABPB) is a novel technique with shows promising results in this area. Case Presentation: We presented a case on the successful application of an ABPB in the reduction of radius head fracture and elbow dislocation. A 26-year-old male patient fell on his left side, as he could not maintain his position in the VWT. In plain radiography, an oblique fracture line on the left radius head and dislocation on the left elbow were observed. During the examination his Visual Analog Score was identified as 98 mm, and in order for the patient to be able to tolerate the painful procedure, an axillary brachial plexus block was preferred. We were unable to establish in the literature the traumatic injuries that occur in VWTs, as a result of free-fall simulations, or any statistics on such injuries. Conclusion: In emergency rooms, where patient load is heavy and the amount of healthcare personnel is low, peripheral nerve block can be an appropriate choice for the emergency physician before undertaking a painful procedure. It is considered that the application of axillary brachial plexus block for reduction in a case of upper extremity dislocation with fracture that happened during a VWT simulation training was safe and effective.