Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block Research Articles

Supraclavicular Block Using Ultrasonography (USG) Guidance in Patients with Moderate Radius Ulna Fractures Mitral Regurgitation Undergoing ORIF (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation): A Case Report

Background: Open fractures of the radius and ulna in elderly patients are conditions that require fast and appropriate treatment. Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) is a common treatment option, but in elderly patients, general anesthesia may be high risk. Supraclavicular brachial plexus block is an effective and safe regional anesthetic option for ORIF in elderly patients. Case presentation: We report the case of a 71-year-old man with an open fracture of the left third radius and middle ulna who was planned for ORIF. The patient had comorbid hypertension and reduced left ventricular function. Supraclavicular brachial plexus block was performed using 0.5% bupivacaine (10 mL) and 2% lidocaine (10 mL). The patient did not complain of pain during the operation and recovered well. Conclusion: Supraclavicular brachial plexus block is an effective and safe regional anesthetic option for ORIF in elderly patients with open fractures of the radius and ulna.

A randomised trial comparing block characteristics of a mixture versus sequential injections of lignocaine and ropivacaine for supraclavicular brachial plexus nerve block in patients undergoing upper limb surgery

Background and Aim: There is no consensus on the appropriate use of mixtures of local anaesthetic drugs in various combinations for nerve blocks. We intended to compare short-acting lignocaine and long-acting ropivacaine as a mixture versus undiluted sequential injections on block characteristics of ultrasound-guided (USG) supraclavicular brachial plexus block for upper limb surgeries. Methods: A double-blinded randomised study was conducted on 64 adult patients scheduled for upper limb surgery who received 15 mL each of 2% lignocaine with adrenaline and 0.75% ropivacaine as a 1:1 mixture in the mixed group (Group M) or sequential injections in the sequential group (Group S) by using a USG technique. The primary outcome was the percentage of participants with complete four nerve sensory blocks at 10 minutes post block injection. Secondary outcomes were sensory and motor block characteristics till 30 minutes, total duration of analgesia, sensory and motor block, and complications. Results: Demographic characteristics and time taken for the procedure were similar. The percentage of participants with a complete four-nerve sensory block at 10 minutes was higher in Group S (69%) versus Group M (41%) (P = 0.04). Complete sensory and motor block rates were similar at 30 minutes. The block procedure time, total duration of analgesia, and sensory and motor block were similar in both groups. There were no major complications. Conclusion: Sequential lignocaine-ropivacaine, compared to the mixed injection technique, has a higher initial rate of sensory and motor block onset with a similar total block duration.

Addition of liposomal bupivacaine to standard bupivacaine versus standard bupivacaine alone in the supraclavicular brachial plexus block: a randomized controlled trial.

The analgesic effect of adding liposomal bupivacaine to standard bupivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block is not known. We hypothesized that addition of liposomal bupivacaine would reduce acute postoperative pain compared to standard bupivacaine alone. A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Patients and outcome assessors were blinded. Eighty patients undergoing distal radial fracture fixation under regional anesthesia with supraclavicular brachial plexus block were randomized into two groups. The liposomal bupivacaine (LB-BPB) group received 10ml of 0.5% plain bupivacaine immediately followed by 10ml of 1.33% liposomal bupivacaine (n=40). The standard bupivacaine (S-BPB) group received 20ml of 0.5% plain bupivacaine (n=40). The primary outcome was weighted area under curve (AUC) numerical rating scale (NRS) pain score at rest over the first 48 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes included AUC scores for pain with movement, overall benefit with analgesia score (OBAS) and other functional scores. For the primary outcome, LB-BPB group was associated with statistically significantly lower AUC pain score at rest (0.6 vs 1.4, p-value < 0.001) in the first 48 hours. Of the secondary outcomes, no difference between treatment groups reached statistical significance with the exception of AUC score for pain with movement (2.3 vs 3.7, adjusted p-value < 0.001) and OBAS (1.1 vs 1.7, adjusted p-value = 0.020) in the first 48 hours, as well as NRS pain score at rest (0.5 vs 1.9, adjusted p-value < 0.001) and with movement (2.7 vs 4.9, adjusted p-value < 0.001) on postoperative day (POD) 1. Differences in NRS pain scores on POD2, POD3 and POD4 did not reach the level of statistical significance. There were no statistically significant differences in sensory function. Liposomal bupivacaine given via supraclavicular brachial plexus block reduced pain at rest in the early postoperative period.

A comparative study between 0.5% ropivacaine with 50 mcg of dexmedetomidine and 0.5% ropivacaine with 8 mg of dexamethasone for ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block – A randomized controlled study

Background: Peripheral nerve block analgesia is augmented using dexamethasone with perineural local anesthesia. Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to assess and compare the effects of dexmedetomidine and dexamethasone on the onset and duration of the sensory and motor block when added to 0.5% ropivacaine for the supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted at the Department of Orthopedics, Government Stanley Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, for 6 months March 2021–September 2021). Eighty patients were randomly allocated into two groups. Group A (40 patients) received ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block with 0.5% ropivacaine (30 mL)+dexmedetomidine 50 mcg (0.5 mL)+normal saline (1.5 mL). Group B (40 patients) received ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block with 0.5% ropivacaine (30 mL)+dexamethasone 8 mg (2 mL). Results: The dexmedetomidine group had a significantly faster onset of sensory anesthesia (3.9 min) than the dexamethasone group (7.8 min), with a higher duration. The dexmedetomidine group also had a faster onset of motor anesthesia (4.9 min) and a longer duration of analgesia (892.3 min) compared to the dexamethasone group (538 min). The dexmedetomidine group also had a longer duration for rescue analgesia (906 min) than the dexamethasone group (727 min). Visual Analog scores at 10, 14 and 24th h were lower in the dexmedetomidine group than in the dexamethasone group, which is statistically significant (P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine has a faster onset, longer duration, longer analgesia, and prolonged duration for rescue analgesia compared to dexamethasone for ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block, with bradycardia and sedation as side effects.

A comparative study between 0.5% Ropivacaine with clonidine versus 0.5% Ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine in ultra sound guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block

Adjuvants in blockade of the brachial plexus can lengthen patient care and hasten the ambulation with stable hemodynamics. Brachial plexus block has possible complications like local anaesthetic systemic toxicity, pneumothorax, nerve injury etc. which can be overcome by use of ultrasound guidance with adjuvants like dexmedetomidine and clonidine for postoperative analgesia. Ropivacaine has higher motor to sensory differentiation and lesser cardiotoxicity.A prospective blinded study comprising of 90 subjects posted for elective upper extremity surgeries. To compare the onset, duration of sensory and motor blockade and analgesia of 0.5% ropivacaine with clonidine 1mg.kg- and 0.5% ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine 1mg.kg-. Ninety patients aged 18 – 60yrs were chosen and randomly allocated into two groups of 45 participants. 20mL of 0.5% Ropivacaine and dexmedetomidine 1mg.kg-was administered to Group A and Group B received Ropivacaine and clonidine 1mg.kg-. In Group A, 73.3% of the subjects showed onset of sensory block of 8 minutes while it was 10 minutes in 26.7% of the subjects. In Group B, 44.4% of the patients showed onset of sensory block of 8 minutes, and 26.7% of the patients showed onset of sensory block of 10 min. Statistically, subjects in Group A showed decrease in onset of block and a higher mean duration of sensory and motor block in contrast to Group B. Addition of dexmedetomidine to 0.5% ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block decreased the time of onset of sensory and motor block and extended the period of analgesia.

Comparing Perfusion Index and Visual Analogue Scores for Postoperative Pain Assessment Following Upper Limb Surgeries Under Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block: An Observational Study.

Effective pain assessment is crucial to tailor the analgesic regimen post-operatively. Perfusion index (PI) has been reported to be a useful objective assessment tool for monitoring pain. This study aimed to explore the utility of PI in assessing postoperative pain in upper limb surgeries under supraclavicular block and its correlation with visual analogue scale (VAS) scores. This prospective, observational study included 140 patients scheduled for elective upper limb surgeries. PI, VAS scores, heart rate (HR),mean arterial pressure (MAP) and physiological parameters were recorded at baseline and postoperatively. Inj. tramadol was administered when the VAS score exceeded ≥ 4 and the VAS score, PI, HR and MAP were recorded at 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes after administration. Comparison of normally and non-normally distributed data was done using t-statistics and Mann-Whitney U-test respectively. Pearson correlation was used to establish a correlation between variables and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to calculate the cut-off value of PI to determine the onset of pain. There was a significant and moderate correlation between pre-analgesic and post-analgesic PI and VAS score (r = -0.425 and -0.448 respectively, p<0.001), while PI and MAP or PI and HR showed only a weak correlation. A cut-off value of 14.7 for PI showed 76.3% sensitivity and 100% specificity in predicting rescue analgesia requirements. The study supports the use of PI as an objective measure for postoperative pain assessment, with a notable correlation with VAS scores. The identified cut-off value for PI adds to its clinical utility in predicting the need for rescue analgesia.

Effect of Adding Dexmedetomidine as an Adjuvant to 0.5% Ropivacaine in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block- a Randomized Controlled Study

Introduction - Dexmedetomidine has been demonstrated to be safe and effective in various neuraxial and regional anesthetic procedures in humans, with fewer adverse effects in several studies.Methodology - This study aimed to study and compare the efficacy of Dexmedetomidine 1μg/kg plus 0.5% Ropivacaine versus 0.5% Ropivacaine alone in brachial plexus block by supraclavicular approach. After obtaining institutional ethics committee approval this prospective, randomized, comparative study was conducted on 60 patients, 18-60 years, either sex scheduled for elective upper limb surgery under supraclavicular brachial plexus block. The primary objective was to study the effects of 0.5% Ropivacaine with Dexmedetomidine 1μg/kg in brachial plexus block in the form of onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade. Secondary objectives included grading the quality of motor block, Sedation Score, Duration of analgesia, Hemodynamic changes, and Side effects, if any.Observations - Group D showed a faster onset and a longer duration of sensory and motor blockage. Rescue analgesia was given with Injection Diclofenac Sodium 75 mg intravenous when patient Numeric Rating Score&gt; 4. The mean sedation score was comparable at baseline, 5th and 10th minutes (P&gt;0.05), significantly higher in Group D from 15th to 480th minutes (P&lt;0.05), and subsequently comparable from 600th to 1440th minutes (P&gt;0.05).Conclusion - When given as an adjuvant to Ropivacaine 0.5% in supraclavicular brachial plexus block, Dexmedetomidine significantly reduces the onset time and increases the duration of sensory and motor block. It also provides excellent sedation during surgery, improves the quality of block, extends the duration of analgesia, and does not cause significant respiratory depression

Block Facilitatory Effects of Perineural Dexmedetomidine in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block with Ropivacaine: Does Dexmedetomidine Has Perineural Site of Action? A Randomized, Controlled and Triple Blind Study

Background: Although nerve block facilitatory effects of dexmedetomidine when used as a perineural adjunct to local anesthetics in supraclavicular brachial plexus blocks are well recognized in multiple studies, but whether this action is at directly on peripheral nerve fibers or is at central level after systemic absorption is unclear. Aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding dexmedetomidine 1 microgram/kg to ropivacaine 0.5% in supraclavicular brachial plexus block in terms of duration of analgesia and 24hour cumulative analgesic requirement and to test the hypothesis whether the effect of dexmedetomidine, is due to direct local action on nerve plexus or is centrally mediated after systemic absorption.&#x0D; Methods: 105 patients of ASA grade I and II of either sex undergoing upper limb orthopedic surgeries were divided in 3 groups of 35 patients in each group. Group Rc (control group) received supraclavicular block with 30ml of 0.5% ropivacaine and intravenous infusion of 30ml of normal saline; group RDexP received supraclavicular block with 30ml solution of 0.5% ropivacaine+ dexmedetomidine 1mcg/kg and intravenous infusion of 30ml of normal saline; and group RDexIV received supraclavicular block with 30ml of 0.5% ropivacaine and intravenous infusion of 30ml of normal saline solution containing dexmedetomidine 1mcg/kg. Primary outcome was duration of analgesia and 24hour cumulative analgesic requirement.&#x0D; Results: The demographic data were comparable in all three groups. Duration of analgesia was longest in group RDexP followed by group RDexIV and least in control group. 24hour cumulative analgesic requirement was least in group RDexP and maximum in group R. 2 patients, one from each group RDexP and group RDexIV reported bradycardia and 6 patients from group RDexIV reported hypotension.&#x0D; Conclusion: We conclude that action of dexmedetomidine is most probably peripheral on brachial plexus nerve fibers directly rather than centrally mediated after systemic absorption

Comparison Between Dexamethasone Versus Clonidine as Adjuvants to 0.75% Ropivacaine in Ultrasound Guided Brachial Plexus Block for Upper Limb Orthopedic Surgeries: A Randomized Prospective Clinical Study

Background: Ropivacaine is an amino-amide local anesthetic, extensively used for peripheral nerve blocks, numerous adjuvants have been added to Ropivacaine to prolong the duration of analgesia. Aim: To compare the effectiveness of adding Dexamethasone to Ropivacaine versus adding Clonidine to Ropivacaine in ultrasound guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block in terms of analgesic duration, onset &amp; duration of sensory and motor blockade.&#x0D; Methods: A prospective randomized single blinded study carried out in 70 patients of ASA grade I and II, aged 20 to 60 years scheduled for elective upper limb orthopedic surgeries. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups, Group RC - patients received 20ml of 0.75% ropivacaine along with 1mcg/kg of clonidine diluted to 2ml of normal saline, Group RD - patients received 20ml of 0.75% ropivacaine along with 8mg of dexamethasone (2ml). Statistical Analysis: Onset &amp; duration of sensorimotor blockade, duration of analgesia was assessed by Unpaired t-test. If p-value &lt;0.05, results were statistically significant &amp; p-value &lt;0.001 were highly significant.&#x0D; Results: Duration of analgesia is superior and statistically significant in Group RD (1,172.57± 18.37 vs 931.09± 16.3). Onset time for sensory (3.14 ± 1.00 vs 9.71± 1.23) and motor (7.60 ± 1.54 vs 13.66± 1.03) block is rapid in Group RD. Duration of sensory (1,106.57± 20.28 vs 786.26± 31.43) and motor (997.74 ± 24.9 vs 674.57 ± 2.18) block is enhanced in Group RD.&#x0D; Conclusion: Dexamethasone as an adjuvant to ropivacaine provided superior post-operative analgesia, faster onset and longer duration of sensory and motor blockade.

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BUPIVACAINE WITH DEXMEDETOMIDINE VERSUS BUPIVACAINE WITH CLONIDINE FOR SUPRACLAVICULAR BRACHIAL PLEXUS BLOCK FOR UPPER LIMB SURGERIES

Objective: To compare the efficacy of clonidine with dexmedetomidine as an adjunct to bupivacaine in patients undergoing upper limb surgeries under supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Methods: This was a prospective comparative study conducted in the department of anesthesiology of a tertiary care medical institute. 80 patients undergoing various upper-limb surgeries were included in this study. Patients were divided into two groups on the basis of whether they received Clonidine (Group C) or Dexmedetomidine (Group D) as an adjuvant to Bupivacaine for supraclavicular block. The onset as well as duration of sensory and motor blockade, duration of analgesia, quality of anesthesia, hemodynamics, and adverse effects were compared between the two groups. p&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The gender distribution of cases in Group C and Group D was found to be comparable, with no statistically significant difference. The mean age of patients in both groups was found to be comparable with no significant difference (p=0.5671). The most common types of surgeries in the studied cases were those of the lower radius and ulna (28.75%), followed by the lower humerus (21.25%), upper radius, and ulna (20%). The mean duration of sensory and motor block and duration of analgesia were found to be higher in group D as compared to group C, and the difference was found to be statistically highly significant (p&lt;0.0001). The quality of anesthesia was better in patients who received dexmedetomidine as compared to those who received clonidine with Bupivacaine. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine used as an adjuvant with bupivacaine for brachial plexus block is associated with prolonged duration of sensory as well as motor block and duration of analgesia as compared to when clonidine is used as an adjuvant. It is also associated with a better quality of anesthesia.

Comparative Study of Ropivacaine Alone Versus Combination of Ropivacaine with Either Dexmedetomidine or Dexamethasone for Ultrasound Guided Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block

Background: Ropivacaine is a common choice for supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Dexmedetomidine and Dexamethasone are frequently added to local anesthetics for improved effects. With limited comparative evidence, this study aimed to assess Dexmedetomidine and Dexamethasone as adjuvants to Ropivacaine in ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block.Methods: This prospective double-blind study enrolled patients aged 18-60, scheduled for elective upper limb surgery below mid-humeral level. They were randomly assigned into three groups: Ropivacaine alone, Ropivacaine with Dexmedetomidine (1 mcg/kg), or Ropivacaine with Dexamethasone (8 mg). The study aimed to compare sensory and motor blockade onset and duration, postoperative analgesia duration, and adverse event occurrence among the groups.Results: Ninety-eight patients participated in the study. All three groups showed similar characteristics in terms of age, weight, gender, ASA grade, and surgery duration. The onset and duration of sensory and motor block were comparable between the Dexamethasone and Dexmedetomidine groups. A significant difference was observed when comparing the Ropivacaine only group to either of the other two groups or when comparing all three groups. Similarly, postoperative analgesia duration was comparable between the Dexamethasone and Dexmedetomidine groups while it differed significantly when comparing all three groups or when comparing the Ropivacaine only group to either of the other groups. Ropivacaine with Dexmedetomidine group experienced notable occurrence of bradycardia.Conclusion: Dexamethasone and Dexmedetomidine as adjuvants to 0.5% Ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus blockade have comparable effects on sensory and motor blockade onset and duration, along with postoperative analgesia duration. Dexmedetomidine, however, is linked to more bradycardia compared to Dexamethasone.

Efficacy of Magnesium Sulfate and Dexmedetomidine as Adjuvants to Ropivacaine in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block: A Randomised Clinical Study

Introduction: Peripheral nerve blocks have recently proven to be extremely promising in terms of patient satisfaction. In upper limb procedures, rapid and deep anaesthesia can be achieved with supraclavicular ultrasound-guided access to the brachial plexus. To improve the quality of local anaesthesia, adjuvants such as magnesium sulfate and dexmedetomidine have been added to the local anaesthetic. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of magnesium sulfate and dexmedetomidine as adjuvants to ropivacaine in supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Blockade (BPB). Materials and Methods: A prospective randomised doubleblind study was conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology from June 2016 to November 2017 ( 1 year and 6 months) at King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. A total of 60 patients were divided into two groups using a computer-generated random number for upper limb surgeries (below the mid-humerus) under supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Group A (n=30) received ropivacaine 0.5% (30 mL) plus dexmedetomidine 50 µg for the supraclavicular block, and Group B received ropivacaine 0.5% (30 mL) plus magnesium sulfate 150 mg in 1 mL Normal Saline (NS) 0.9% for the same block. A comparison of these two groups was conducted for the time of onset, duration of sensory and motor block, haemodynamic stability, postoperative analgesia, and complications. Statistical analyses such as Student’s t-test, Chi-square test, and MannWhitney U-test were used. Results: The mean age of Group A was 28.03±5.86 years and Group B was 31.07±7.06 years. The sensory block and motor block onset were significantly faster among patients of Group A (6.47±1.43 min and 8.50±1.46 min) compared to Group B (9.57±1.22 min and 11.77±1.19 min). The mean duration of analgesia was significantly longer (p&lt;0.001) in Group A (1034.10±61.07 min) compared to Group B (460.00±35.82 min). The duration of sensory block and motor block was also significantly higher (p&lt;0.001) in Group A compared to Group B. Both groups were haemodynamically stable, but sedation was significantly higher in Group A. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine 50 µg is a superior adjuvant compared to magnesium sulfate 150 mg with ropivacaine 0.5% in supraclavicular brachial plexus block as it significantly hastens onset time and prolongs the duration of sensory and motor blocks and the duration of analgesia.

Ultrasound-guided Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block with Ropivacaine in Basilic Vein Transposition Surgery for Chronic Renal Failure Patients: An Interventional Study

Introduction: Basilic Vein Transposition surgery (BVT) is preferred under ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block, which provides excellent and safe anaesthesia in Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) patients. Ropivacaine, with a shorter elimination half-life than bupivacaine and better pharmacokinetics, is a safer option as a local anaesthetic agent in CRF. Aim: To assess the onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade with 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine in ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block and the need for additional local infiltration at the surgical site for BVT. Materials and Methods: In present interventional study conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology, Pramukhswami Medical College, Bhaikaka University, Karamsad, Anand, Gujarat, India, 25 American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) III/IV CRF patients, aged 18-80 years, who underwent BVT surgery, were included from December 2021 to November 2022. A 20 mL dose of 0.5% ropivacaine was administered to these patients via ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block. The surgeon performed local infiltration with 10 mL of lignocaine at the T2 dermatomal area in all patients. Descriptive statistics were calculated for age, weight, ASA status, onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade, and the need for additional local infiltration. Results: The mean age and mean weight of the patients were 52 years and 57.68 kg, respectively. Total 17 were male and eight were female, while 23 were ASA III and two were ASA IV. After administering the supraclavicular block, the mean onset of sensory and motor blockade was 9±2.3629 and 13.16±2.6721 minutes, respectively. The mean duration of sensory and motor blockade was 612.8±132.815 and 522.8±121.124 minutes, respectively. All patients required local site infiltration (10 mL of 1% lignocaine-Adrenaline) as the T2 dermatome is usually spared by the supraclavicular block. Three patients required additional local anaesthetic infiltration. Conclusion: Minimising the concentration and volume of local anaesthetic drugs without compromising efficacy is challenging, particularly in BVT, where the incision is extensive and performed under supraclavicular BPB in high-risk CRF patients. The anaesthesia practice of using a low volume of 0.5% ropivacaine in BPB under ultrasound guidance, along with local anaesthetic infiltration with 1% lignocaine with adrenaline at the T2 dermatome, can serve this purpose without any complications.

Use of Dexmedetomidine as an Adjuvant to Ropivacaine in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block for Patients Undergoing Upper Limb Surgery

Background: Various adjuvants have been added in Brachial plexus block but only few studies have reported the use of dexmedetomidine. Alpha 2 agonist Dexmedetomidine used as an adjuvant to the local anesthetic has been suggested to prolong the duration of peripheral nerve block. The objective of this study is to compare the effect adding Dexmedetomidine to Ropivacaine in Supraclavicular brachial plexus block&#x0D; Materials and Methods: A Quantitative, comparative cross sectional prospective study was conducted in 78 patients randomly allocated into three groups. Group R received 30ml of  0.5% Ropivacaine,  Group B  received  30ml of 0.5% Ropivacaine + 50mcg of  Dexmedetomidine  for supraclavicular block and Group Y received 30ml of 0.5% Ropivacaine 0.5% for supraclavicular block and intravenous Dexmedetomidine 50mcg . The onset time to sensory and motor blockade, duration of sensory and motor block and duration of analgesia were recorded.&#x0D; Results: The onset of Sensory block and motor block was earlier in group B than in group Y and group R. The duration of sensory block and motor block duration was also prolonged in group B when compared with group Y and group R. The duration of analgesia was significantly longer in group B, and group Y when compared to group R.&#x0D; Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to Ropivacaine decreases the sensory as well as motor block onset time, prolongs sensory and motor block duration and also increases the duration of analgesia. The action of Dexmedetomidine most probably is local rather than centrally mediated.

A comparison of the continuous supraclavicular brachial plexus block using the proximal longitudinal oblique approach and the interscalene brachial plexus block for arthroscopic shoulder surgery: A randomised, controlled, double-blind trial.

Continuous interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) is widely used for arthroscopic shoulder surgery, but the incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paresis (HDP) has been reported to reach 100%. Several methods, including injections distal to the C5-C6 nerve roots, have been attempted to reduce the HDP incidence. However, catheter placement distal to the C5-C6 nerve roots interferes with the surgical site. Our primary objective was to describe a new technique, the supraclavicular brachial plexus block (SCB), using the proximal longitudinal oblique approach (PLO-SCB), which can facilitate catheter placement and, when compared with ISB, to test whether this would provide noninferior analgesia and spare the phrenic nerve. Prospective, randomised, double-blind study. Operating rooms, postanaesthesia care unit, and wards. Seventy-six patients aged 20 to 80 years scheduled for arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to the continuous PLO-SCB ( n  = 40) or the continuous ISB ( n  = 40) groups. All patients received an initial low-volume single-injection (5 ml 0.75% ropivacaine) followed by a patient-controlled infusion of 0.15% ropivacaine. The primary outcomes were the incidence of HDP and pain scores. Secondary outcomes were respiratory function, postoperative analgesic consumption, sensory and motor function, and complications. The HDP incidence was significantly lower in the PLO-SCB group than in the ISB group at 30 min after block injection: 0% (0 of 38 patients) and 73.7% (28 of 38 patients), respectively ( P  < 0.001). Similarly, at 24 h after surgery, the incidences were 23.7% (9 of 38 patients) and 47.4% (18 of 38 patients) in the PLO-SCB and ISB groups, respectively ( P  = 0.002). Median [IQR] NRS pain scores at rest measured after surgery in the ISB and PLO-SCB groups were similar: immediately after surgery, 1 [0 to 2] vs. 1 [0 to 1], P  = 0.06); at 30 min, 2 [0.25 to 2] vs. 1 [0 to 2], P  = 0.065); and at 24 h 2 [0.25 to 3] vs. 1 [0 to 3], P  = 0.47, respectively. For major shoulder surgery, compared with continuous ISB, continuous PLO-SCB was more sparing of diaphragmatic and respiratory function while providing noninferior analgesia. Catheter placement via the PLO approach is feasible without interfering with the surgical field. Registered by the Clinical Trial Registry of Korea (Seoul, Korea; KCT0004759, http: cris.nih.go.kr, principal investigator: Hyungtae Kim).

A comparative study on sedative and cardiorespiratory effects of clonidine and dexmedetomidine added to ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block in upper extremity surgery

Background: Supraclavicular brachial plexus block is widely used peripheral nerve block technique used for surgery of the upper extremity. Several drugs have been used with local anesthetic as adjuvants for rapid, dense, and prolonged analgesia. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of the study are to compare the degree of sedation and cardiorespiratory effects of clonidine and dexmedetomidine added to ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Materials and Methods: A double-blinded comparative study was done on eighty patients who were randomly allocated equally into two groups and received clonidine and dexmedetomidine added to ropivacaine 0.5%. Intraoperative degree of sedation and cardiorespiratory parameters were monitored in regular intervals and compared to find difference. Results: Heart rate was consistently lower with dexmedetomidine. Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressures (MAPs) were comparable in both groups at all time points except at 45 min when diastolic and MAP were lower with dexmedetomidine and it was statistically significant. Sedation score in Group D was higher except at 5 min and difference was statistically significant. All patients in both groups were sedated and easily arousable. There was statistically significant difference in peroperative oxygen saturation between the groups although it was clinically not significant. Conclusion: There was more hemodynamic effect of dexmedetomidine than clonidine but these effects can be managed by medication easily. In addition to this, it was found that dexmedetomidine provides conscious sedation without any respiratory depression. Comparing the risk and benefit dexmedetomidine can be used with local anesthetic in supraclavicular brachial plexus block in upper extremity surgery.

Analgesic Efficacy of Dexmedetomidine as an Adjuvant to Ropivacaine in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block for Upper Limb Surgeries: A Prospective Randomized Study

Background and Aims: The primary aim of this randomized controlled study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of dexmedetomidine to ropivacaine on the onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade and the duration of analgesia in patients undergoing upper limb surgeries under supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 patients of age 18–55 years, planned for elective upper limb surgeries under supraclavicular brachial plexus block using a nerve stimulator, were randomly allocated into two groups. Group 1 (n = 50) received 30 mL 0.5% ropivacaine and 1 mL normal saline and Group 2 (n = 50) received 30 mL 0.5% ropivacaine and 1 μg/kg of dexmedetomidine. The onset and duration of sensory and motor block, duration of analgesia, and adverse events during the perioperative period were noted. Results: The onset of sensory and motor block in Group 1 (16. 26 ± 2.23 and 21.68 ± 2.90 min) was slower than those in Group 2 (9.12 ± 2.40 and 12.68 ± 2.62 min), (&lt;0.001). The duration of sensory and motor block in Group 1 was significantly shorter than those in Group 2 (P &lt; 0.001). The duration of analgesia in Group 1 (402.80 ± 28.21 min) was shorter than that in Group 2 (981.00 ± 92.26 min; P &lt; 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the incidence of the side effects, except in the incidence of sedation which is significantly higher in Group 2, (P &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine with ropivacaine for supraclavicular nerve block resulted in earlier onset and prolonged duration of the sensorimotor blockade and provided a longer pain-free postoperative period without significant hemodynamic alterations.

Comparative study between dexmedetomidine and dexamethasone as an adjuvant to levobupivacaine for supraclavicular brachial plexus block in patients undergoing upper limb surgeries

Background: Brachial plexus block (BPB) is widely used nowadays in patients undergoing upper limb surgery. Levobupivacaine is one of the best local anesthetics in the current scenario in this field. Both dexmedetomidine (DM) and dexamethasone (DX) are commonly used local anesthetic adjuvants in BPB to enhance blocking effects. In anesthesiology, there is always a search for a better alternative. Aims and Objectives: In this study, we investigated the effect of DM and DX as adjuvants to levobupivacaine on the quality of supraclavicular BPB. Materials and Methods: A prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled intervention study (superiority trial) was done involving 60 patients aged 20–60 years, randomly allocated into two equal groups (group S-DM group-Patients were received Injection 0.25% Levobupivacaine 2 mg/kg body weight+Inj. DM 1 mcg/kg body weight+distilled water [total volume 30 mL] and group C-DX group-Patients received Inj. 0.25% Levobupivacaine 2 mg/kg+Inj. DX 0.1 mg/kg body weight+Distilled water [total volume 30 mL]). The scores of the modified Gormley and Hill scale and the modified Bromage scale were recorded along with hemodynamic parameters. Pearson’s Chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U-test, one-way ANOVA, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, and Z-test were used for statistical analysis. Results: The onset of motor block was shorter in group-S patients (14.2667±1.0807 [min]) compared to group-C (15.9333±1.5742 [min]), and the duration of motor block was higher in group-S (708.5667±4.2644 [min]) compared to group-C patients (682.3667±20.0095 [min]) (P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: DM is a better alternative to DX when added to levobupivacaine for decreasing the onset of sensory and motor block and increasing the duration of supraclavicular BPB.

Comparison of USG-Guided Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block by Single-Point Versus Multiple-Point Injection Technique: A Prospective Randomized Trial.

Background This study investigated the success rate of ultrasonography (USG)-guided supraclavicular block using a single-point injection technique comparing it with multiple-point injection technique, in terms of nerve sparing, time taken to perform the procedure, time taken to onset of sensory and motor block. Materials and methods A total of 204 patients of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Status I and II, aged 18-60 years, with body mass index (BMI) ≤30 kg/m2, posted for upper limb surgeries were given USG-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block with 15 mL of 0.5% Ropivacaine. The patients were randomly divided into group A (single-point injection) and group B (multiple-point injection), using an out-of-plane technique. Sensory and motor block was assessed for onset and maximum grade achieved, by using pinprick, cold, touch, and movement respectively. The efficacy of the block was tested by assessment in the territories of musculocutaneous, ulnar, radial, median, axillary, and intercostobrachial nerves. Procedural time was calculated from the insertion of the needle till the complete injection of the drug. Results Patients in both groups were comparable in terms of demography and ASA status. The success rate for group A was 60.8%, compared to 98% in group B. In group B, the intercostobrachial nerve was most commonly spared (7.84%), followed by ulnar (1.96%), and radial (0.98%). On the other hand, in group A, the most frequently spared nerves were ulnar and intercostobrachial (23.5% each), followed by radial (12.7%), axillary (10.8%), musculocutaneous (7.8%), and median nerves (6.9%). The onset of sensory and motor block was similar in both groups. The procedure time was longer in the multiple-point group. Conclusion Our observations suggest that nerve sparing is much lesser in the multiple-point injection technique used for USG-guided supraclavicular block. In a good number of patients using this technique, the intercostobrachial nerve gets blocked.

Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block Guided by Ultrasonography in Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

Background: Supraclavicular brachial plexus block has proven to be very useful in upper limb surgeries in pediatric patients. Supraclavicular brachial plexus block is preferred over general anesthesia for pediatric patients undergoing upper limb surgeries. This study aimed to report a procedure of supraclavicular brachial plexus block guided by ultrasonography in a pediatric patient undergoing orthopedic surgery on the upper extremity, which yielded good results, a high success rate, reduced opioid usage, and aided in faster recovery while minimizing complications.&#x0D; Case presentation: The patient was a 14-year-old child with a diagnosis of malunion in the left distal radius after open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) planned for osteoclasis surgery and ORIF with regional anesthesia through supraclavicular brachial plexus block. The patient was monitored during the surgery, and after the surgery, the patient returned to the ward; the patient was given oral analgesics without opioids for pain management.&#x0D; Conclusion: The efficient regional anesthesia procedure option for upper limb surgeries in pediatric patients is the supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Due to lower risks and fewer side effects, the supraclavicular brachial plexus block procedure is preferred over general anesthesia in pediatric patients.