Supraclavicular versus infraclavicular Brachial Plexus block

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Of the various modalities of achieving surgical anaesthesia of the forearm, brachial plexus block by injecting local anaesthetic is considered highly beneficial and practical. Supraclavicular and infra-clavicular approaches of brachial plexus blocks provide comprehensive anaesthesia for surgeries of the forearm. The primary outcome measured was the comparison of two blocks with respect to sparing of any dermatome, whereas the secondary outcomes measured were block performance time, duration of analgesia, and complications associated with each technique. METHODS: 150 patients belonging to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I and II in the age range of 18–80 years scheduled to undergo surgeries of the forearm were divided into two groups: Supraclavicular (SCB group) and Infraclavicular (ICB group) of 75 each. Both the blocks were given by 30 mL of 0.25% injection Bupivacaine using a 22G, 5 cm insulated needle and nerve locator. Both the groups were compared with respect to sparing of dermatomes, block performance time, duration of analgesia and complications like Horner’s syndrome, vascular puncture, and pneumothorax. RESULTS: Block performance time was similar in both the groups. Duration of analgesia was comparable among the two groups.