Technique Of Brachial Plexus Block Research Articles

Comparison of the classical approach and costoclavicular approach of ultrasound-guided infraclavicular block: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and Aims: The infraclavicular brachial plexus block (ICB) provides analgesia and anaesthesia of the upper limb. It is given using the classical or the more recently described costoclavicular (CC) approach at the level of cords. This systematic review aimed to assess which approach is better for the ICB in terms of onset, performance, and safety. Methods: This PROSPERO (vide registration number CRD42022361636) registered meta-analysis included randomised trials of patients undergoing upper limb surgery in ultrasound-guided ICB from MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and IRCTP from inception to March 2023. The quality of evidence was assessed using GradePro software. The primary outcomes were sensory and motor block onset time and the number of patients having complete block at 30 minutes. Secondary outcomes included block performance time (BPT), number of attempts, duration of the block, and any incidence of complications. Results: Five trials with 374 adult patients (classic = 185, CC = 189) were included. No significant difference was found in the sensory (Mean difference (MD): 1.44 minutes [95% confidence interval (CI): 3.06, 5.95]; I2 = 95%; very low level of evidence (LOE); P = 0.53) and motor block onset times (MD: 0.83 minutes [95% CI: 0.96, 2.62]; I2 = 84%; very low LOE P = 0.36) and BPT (MD: 5.06 seconds [95% CI: 38.50, 48.63]; I2 = 98%; very low LOE; P = 0.82) in classic and CC approach of ICB. Trial sequential analysis revealed our sample size to be 0.65% of the required sample size to achieve 80% power, deeming our study underpowered. Conclusion: Costoclavicular approach was not superior or inferior to the classical technique for infraclavicular brachial plexus block. However, the quality of evidence is low and further studies are needed to corroborate the findings.

Axillary Brachial Plexus Block Compared with Other Regional Anesthesia Techniques in Distal Upper Limb Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: Several regional anesthesia (RA) techniques have been described for distal upper limb surgery. However, the best approach in terms of RA block success rate and safety is not well recognized. Objective: To assess and compare the surgical anesthesia and efficacy of axillary brachial plexus block with other RA techniques for hand and wrist surgery. The attainment of adequate surgical anesthesia 30 min after block placement was considered a primary outcome measure. Additionally, successful block outcomes were required without the use of supplemental local anesthetic injection, systemic opioid analgesia, or the need to convert to general anesthesia. Methods: We performed a systematic search in the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and CENTRAL. RCTs comparing axillary blocks with other brachial plexus block techniques, distal peripheral forearm nerve block, intravenous RA, and the wide-awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) technique were included. Results: In total, 3070 records were reviewed, of which 28 met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis of adequate surgical anesthesia showed no significant difference between ultrasound-guided axillary block and supraclavicular block (RR: 0.94 [0.89, 1.00]; p = 0.06; I2 = 60.00%), but a statistically significant difference between ultrasound-guided axillary block and infraclavicular block (RR: 0.92 [0.88, 0.97]; p < 0.01; I2 = 53.00%). Ultrasound-guided infraclavicular blocks were performed faster than ultrasound-guided axillary blocks (SMD: 0.74 [0.30, 1.17]; p < 0.001; I2 = 85.00%). No differences in performance time between ultrasound-guided axillary and supraclavicular blocks were demonstrated. Additionally, adequate surgical anesthesia onset time was not significantly different between ultrasound-guided block approaches: ultrasound-guided axillary blocks versus ultrasound-guided supraclavicular blocks (SMD: 0.52 [-0.14, 1.17]; p = 0.12; I2 = 86.00%); ultrasound-guided axillary blocks versus ultrasound-guided infraclavicular blocks (SMD: 0.21 [-0.49, 0.91]; p = 0.55; I2 = 92.00%). Conclusions: The RA choice should be individualized depending on the patient, procedure, and operator-specific parameters. Compared to ultrasound-guided supraclavicular and infraclavicular block, ultrasound-guided axillary block may be preferred for patients with significant concerns of block-related side effects/complications. High heterogeneity between studies shows the need for more robust RCTs.

Efficacy and safety of extrafascial injection versus intrafascial injection for interscalene brachial plexus block: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) techniques in upper limb and shoulder surgeries. We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, Medline, and Scopus databases up to May 14th, 2023. We employed a search strategy involving keywords such as "brachial plexus block," "interscalene brachial plexus block," "ISB," "extrafascial," and "intrafascial," without applying search restrictions or filters. Eligible studies consisted of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared extrafascial and intrafascial ISB techniques in adult patients undergoing upper limb and shoulder surgeries. Our analysis included six RCTs encompassing 485 participants. Extrafascial injection demonstrated superiority over intrafascial injection in reducing the incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paresis (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.124 to 0.47, P<0.00001) and preserving respiratory function (MS 0.31, 95% CI 0.1 to 0. 52, P=0.003 FEV<inf>1</inf> in liters). Additionally, extrafascial ISB exhibited a lower risk of block-related complications (RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.50, P<0.00001). However, the intrafascial technique offered a faster sensory and motor block onset. The duration of sensory block did not significantly differ. The incidence of Horner syndrome showed no statistically significant difference. Our findings favor extrafascial ISB techniques because they reduce hemidiaphragmatic paresis, preserve respiratory function, and lower block-related complications. However, further research is necessary to establish their safety and efficacy in specific patient populations.

Advances in Anesthesia for Shoulder Surgery: A Comprehensive Review of Dexmedetomidine-Enhanced Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block.

Surgical procedures on the shoulder pose distinctive challenges in managing pain during the perioperative period, underscoring the importance of exploring innovative anesthesia techniques. This comprehensive review article delves into integrating dexmedetomidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, within interscalene brachial plexus blocks for shoulder surgery. The review initiates by underscoring the pivotal role of effective anesthesia in shoulder surgery and elucidates the rationale behind investigating dexmedetomidine as an adjunct. It meticulously examines the anatomy and physiology of the brachial plexus, emphasizing its critical significance in shoulder surgery. Furthermore, the article expounds on dexmedetomidine's mechanisms of action and pharmacokinetics, encompassing its safety profile and potential side effects. The conventional interscalene brachial plexus block techniques, along with their limitations and challenges, are discussed, laying the foundation for the integration of dexmedetomidine. The review subsequently delves into exploring the role of dexmedetomidine in regional anesthesia, covering previous studies, mechanisms of action, and the potential advantages of incorporating it into nerve blocks. The review's core concentrates on the practical application of dexmedetomidine-enhanced interscalene brachial plexus blocks. This includes discussions on administration techniques, dosage guidelines, and compelling evidence supporting its utilization. Clinical scenarios where this approach proves most advantageous are thoroughly explored, comparing its effectiveness with traditional techniques in terms of pain control and patient outcomes. A comprehensive examination of relevant clinical trials and case studies highlights the evidence supporting its efficacy. The review also underscores safety considerations associated with dexmedetomidine. It proposes strategies for mitigating risks to ensure patient safety. Insights into future directions and research are provided, encompassing ongoing studies, areas necessitating further investigation, and potential refinements in technique. Finally, the article summarizes key findings, emphasizing the practicality of dexmedetomidine-enhanced interscalene brachial plexus blocks in shoulder surgery and its far-reaching implications for clinical practice and patient care.

Comparison of landmark technique versus ultrasound guided technique for supraclavicular brachial plexus block in upper limb surgeries: A prospective randomized trial

: Brachial plexus block is a widely used regional anaesthesia technique for upper limb surgeries, with regional techniques gaining popularity over general anaesthesia. Recent advancements in anatomical sonography have improved the understanding and application of ultrasound-guided techniques. Ultrasound enables accurate needle placement /and real-time monitoring of drug distribution, enhancing the effectiveness and safety of the procedure.: The objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of supraclavicular brachial plexus block using the landmark technique and ultrasound-guided technique in terms of procedure time, onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade, effectiveness of the block, and complication rate. This prospective, randomized controlled study included 60 patients aged between 18 and 60 years, of either sex, belonging to ASA grade I and II, and undergoing elective or emergency upper limb surgeries (elbow, forearm, and hand surgeries). The patients were divided into two groups: Group LM (Landmark technique) and Group US (Ultrasound technique). Each patient received a supraclavicular brachial plexus block using either technique with 25ml of 0.5% ropivacaine, and relevant parameters were recorded.: The success rate was higher in Group US compared to Group LM, and no complications were observed. The onset of blockade was significantly faster, and the duration of the block was longer with the ultrasound-guided technique compared to the landmark technique. However, the time taken to administer the block was longer with the ultrasound technique.: Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block is a safer technique with a higher success rate, providing more effective and prolonged block compared to the conventional landmark technique.

Hemidiaphragmatic paralysis after costoclavicular approach versus other brachial plexus blocks in upper limb surgery: a meta-analysis.

The costoclavicular brachial plexus block (CCB) is a recently established technique that uses the infraclavicular approach and is performed just below the clavicle. This meta-analysis aimed to determine whether CCB can reduce the incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis (HDP), which is a major adverse event related to brachial plexus block (BPB), while yielding comparable block performance as other BPB techniques. We searched electronic databases to identify relevant studies that compared the incidence of HDP between CCB and other BPB techniques. The primary outcome was the incidence of HDP following CCB and other BPB techniques. The secondary outcomes were pulmonary function test results, other adverse events, and block performance parameters such as onset and performance time. We included six randomized controlled trials that included 414 patients. Compared with the other BPB group, the CCB group had a significantly lower incidence of HDP (relative ratio: 0.21, 95% CI [0.12, 0.36], P < 0.001) and higher peak expiratory flow rate (mean difference: 0.68 L/s, 95% CI [0.13, 1.23], P = 0.015). There were no significant between-group differences with respect to other adverse events and block performance parameters. Compared with other BPB techniques, CCB involves a lower incidence of HDP with comparable onset and performance time.

Evaluation of lidocaine for brachial plexus blockade in eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina)

ObjectiveTo evaluate latency and duration of a brachial plexus block technique in eastern box turtles performed with 2% lidocaine at three dose rates. Study designProspective, randomized, blinded crossover study. AnimalsAdult eastern box turtles, two for drug dose evaluation and a group of six (three male, three female) weighing 432 ± 40 g (mean ± standard deviation) for the main study. MethodsAnimals were randomly assigned to four brachial plexus blocks with lidocaine at 5, 10 and 20 mg kg–1 or 0.9% saline (treatments LID5, LID10, LID20 and CON, respectively), separated by 1 week. Treatment side was randomized and blocks were performed unilaterally. Baseline observations of mentation, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (fR), skin temperature and limb response to manipulation or toe pinch were evaluated. Assessments were made every 10 minutes until 1 hour of normal sensory and motor function to the treated thoracic limb, or for a total of 2 hours if no block was evident. ResultsMotor and sensory blockade was achieved in treatments LID10 and LID20 in one turtle, with a latency of 10 minutes and duration of 50 minutes for both doses. Raising of the ipsilateral lower palpebra occurred with both blocks. Turtles administered lidocaine experienced higher HR compared with CON, and HR decreased over time for all individuals. Mentation and fR were not changed with any lidocaine dose. ConclusionsThe technique was unreliable in producing brachial plexus motor and sensory blockade at the lidocaine doses evaluated in this study. HR was higher in lidocaine-administered turtles but remained within normal limits for the species. No change in mentation or fR was observed among treatments. Clinical relevanceGeneral anesthesia with systemic analgesia is recommended for surgical procedures involving the chelonian thoracic limb. Further studies are needed to optimize a brachial plexus block in this species.

İnfraklaviküler ve interskalen bloğun önkol oksijenasyonuna etkisi: randomize kontrollü bir çalışma

Purpose: Infraclavicular block (ICB) and interscalene block (ISB) accompanied by ultrasonography imaging (USI) are the most frequently used brachial plexus block techniques in upper extremity surgeries. It is already known that sympathetic blockage occurs after the application of these blocks, and blood flow increases with vasodilatation caused by the blockage. This study aimed to compare the effect of ICB and ISB, which are applied together with USI, on forearm tissue oxygenation.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: A hundred-four patients were included in this study belonging to ASA I-III risk groups, aged 18–65 years, who were scheduled for elective or emergency arm, elbow, or forearm surgery. The patients were divided into two groups: Group ICB and Group ISB. In addition to the baseline hemodynamic measurements, PI, time average velocity (TAV), brachial artery diameter (BAD), brachial arterial area (BAA), brachial artery beat flow (BF), and tissue oxygen saturation (rSO2) data were recorded before block and at the 10th, 20th, and 30th min after the block was completed.&#x0D; Results: The demographic data of the patients in the Group ICB and Group ISB were compared, no significant differences were detected between the groups. When the distribution of the percentage increase in PI and rSO2 values according to time was examined, significant differences were found between the groups. There were no significant differences in the percentage increases in BF, TAV, BAA, and BAD values between the 0th minute and at 10th, 20th, and 30th min (p&gt;0.05). Horner syndrome was observed in 8 patients (15%) and sudden hoarseness was observed in 3 patients (5%) in Group ISB. No complications developed in the Group ICB.&#x0D; Conclusion: This study shows that the effects of ICB and ISB on forearm tissue oxygenation were compared and it was found that ICB increased rSO2 and PI values.

Surgeon-administered intraoperative brachial plexus block for open shoulder surgery - a novel and safe technique.

In the era of outpatient shoulder surgery, bundled payment, safe, predictable, and time-efficient pain management strategies for shoulder arthroplasty (SA) are important. Ultrasound-guided interscalene blocks (ISBs), currently the gold standard for postoperative pain management after shoulder surgery, can be highly operator dependent, time-consuming, and not without complications. We developed a new surgical technique of surgeon-administered intraoperative brachial plexus block in patients undergoing SA open shoulder surgery using the deltopectoral approach. This procedure could be performed after the exposure, either at the beginning or end of the bony work. This procedure is simple, safe, and effective. We did not notice any complications that are typically seen with ISB-like respiratory depression secondary to phrenic nerve palsy, rebound pain after the block wore off, and pain related conversion of outpatient SA to inpatient, over the period of four years (2018-2022). This technique has additional advantages over the established "gold standard" ISB in terms of time and cost savings and improved operating room efficiency.

Modified technique for proximal subclavicular brachial plexus block: study on unfixed cadavers

BACKGROUND: The proximal subclavian brachial plexus block is performed deep and posterior to the midpoint of the clavicle. Only a few studies evaluated the spread of local anesthetic when using a proximal subclavian approach to the brachial plexus. We performed a cadaveric study to evaluate the spread of the injection after performing proximal subclavian brachial plexus block using ultrasound navigation.&#x0D; AIM: To examine the spread of the stained solution in unfixed corpses, when it is administered using a modified technique of proximal subclavian access to the brachial plexus using ultrasound navigation.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six ultrasound-guided injections were performed on three unfixed cadavers using 20 ml of a colored solution. The brachial plexus and its branches were distinguished from the level of the midpoint of the clavicle to the upper third of the shoulder. The boundaries of ink distribution in relation to the bundles and terminal branches of the brachial plexus from the intersection of the upper edge of the clavicle to the upper parts of the axillary region were assessed.&#x0D; RESULTS: In all cases of dye spread, the lateral, posterior, and medial bundles of the brachial plexus were stained. Terminal branch staining varied and was limited to the proximal portions of these nerves. The dye spread to the interstellar space in 2 (33%) out of 6 (100%) injections and to the level of the upper edge of the clavicle in 4 (67%) injections. The axillary and radial nerves were stained in all injections, and the ulnar nerve was stained in 4 (67%) of 6 (100%) injections. The musculocutaneous and median nerves were stained in only 2 (33%) of 6 (100%) injections. No phrenic nerve staining was observed in any case.&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS: On the basis of experiment results on unfixed cadavers, injection using a modified ultrasound-guided proximal subclavian approach can fill the fascial sheath surrounding the brachial plexus with the injection material, thus causing the dye to spread around all bundles of the brachial plexus to supraclavicular space. Additional research is needed to assess whether high injection volumes or multiple injection sites can affect distribution.

Ultrasound-guided selective trunk block (SeTB): a cadaver anatomic study to evaluate the spread of dye after a simulated injection

Background and objectivesRecent reports suggest that a selective trunk block (SeTB) can produce sensorimotor blockade of the entire upper extremity, except for the T2 dermatome. There are no data demonstrating...

Comparison of infraclavicular brachial plexus block versus wide-awake local anesthesia no-tourniquet technique in the management of radial shortening osteotomy.

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of the wide-awake local anesthesia no-tourniquet (WALANT) technique in radial shortening osteotomy and to compare it with the infraclavicular brachial plexus block (IBPB).Patients and methods Between January 2020 and January 2021, a total of 26 patients (16 males, 10 females, mean age: 40±4.9 years; range, 29 to 45 years) with Kienbock’s disease who underwent radial shortening osteotomy were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups according to the type of anesthesia as WALANT (Group 1, n=11) and IBPB (Group 2, n=15) anesthesia. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) during surgery, time from anesthesia to surgical incision, surgical time, overall patient satisfaction regarding the anesthesia was assessed. The Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Q-DASH) and handgrip strengths were compared at the final follow-up and short-term outcomes were analyzed.Results Age (p=0.896), sex (p=1.000), and dominant side involvement (p=1.000) were similar between the groups. Waiting time to start surgery in both groups was similar (27 vs. 25 min; p=0.053). Intraoperative VAS-pain scores and the satisfaction from the anesthesia type of both groups were also similar (p=0.546 and p=0.500).Conclusion The WALANT may be another anesthesia technique for radial shortening osteotomy with favorable outcomes. This technique adequately allows the surgeon to perform osteotomy and obtain a stable reduction without undue risk of tourniquet pain and palsy.

Comparison of local infiltration analgesia and interscalene block for postoperative pain management in shoulder arthroscopy: a prospective randomized controlled trial

Background/aimThe aim of this study was to compare the effects of local infiltration analgesia and interscalene brachial plexus block techniques on postoperative pain control and shoulder functional scores in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.Materials and methodsSixty patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were prospectively included in the study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 was comprised of patients who had interscalene brachial plexus block, while group 2 was comprised of patients who had local infiltration analgesia. In group 1, interscalene block was applied with 20 mL 0.5% bupivacaine. In group 2, the Ranawat cocktail was used for local infiltration analgesia. Sixty milliliters of Ranawat cocktail was applied to the subacromial space and glenohumeral joint in equal amounts. Postoperative pain was assessed by the VAS score. Functional scores of the shoulder were also evaluated by Constant–Murley and UCLA scores. The time of first analgesic requirement and total analgesic consumption in the postoperative period were assessed. ResultsThe first analgesic requirement was significantly late in the interscalene brachial plexus block group (p = 0.000). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of total analgesic consumption (p = 0.204). In the postoperative 6th h, the VAS score was 2.43 in the interscalene brachial plexus block group, whereas 2.86 in the local infiltration analgesia group (p = 0.323). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of Constant–Murley shoulder and UCLA scores in the 3rd postoperative month (respectively, p = 0.929, p = 0.671). Besides, postoperative VAS scores and functional scores were negatively correlated (p < 0.01). Conclusion Local infiltration analgesia is an effective alternative to interscalene brachial plexus block for postoperative pain management and total analgesic consumption in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. However, the interscalene brachial plexus block provides a longer postoperative painless period.

Peripheral Nerve Stimulator (PNS) Versus Trans-Arterial (TA) Techniques for Axillary Brachial Plexus Block

Background: Axillary brachial plexus block is one of the widely used techniques for upper extremity surgery. Peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) provide optimal surgical conditions while providing prolonged post-operative analgesia. The transarterial (TA) technique of axillary brachial plexus block is a well established method of producing regional anaesthesia for surgeries at or below elbow. In this prospective randomized study we compared, “peripheral nerve stimulator (PNS) versus trans-arterial (TA) techniques for axillary brachial plexus block” Methods: In this prospective, randomized study 80 patients, age&gt;18 year, ASA-I &amp; II, were divided randomly into two groups PNS and TA. In PNS groups 40 patients received axillary approach of brachial plexus block with the help of peripheral nerve stimulator, and rest TA group received axillary block through transarterial approach. Local anaesthetic 0.25% bupivacaine 15ml+1% lignocaine with adrenaline (1:200,000) 20 ml was used. Then success rate of two different methods of block were compared. Other parameters of comparison was block performance time of block, onset of sensory and motor block, failure rate, analgesia required etcetera. Results: The success rate of the block in PNS group was 90% and the success rate of TA group was 85% and there was no significant difference in success rate. Performance time was significantly low in trans-arterial axillary approach of brachial plexus block (p&lt;0.005). There was no significant difference in onset of motor and sensory block. The sensory and motor functions returned properly in all patients. Conclusion: In our study we found that the PNS guided axillary block and TA injection axillary brachial plexus block provide similar success rate, and onset of block when musculocutaneous nerve blocked separately in the both techniques. Keywords: Axillary brachial plexus block, Trans-arterial approach, Peripheral nerve stimulator.

Comparative study of ultrasound and ultrasound with peripheral nerve stimulator guided techniques for brachial plexus block in upper limb surgeries

Comparative study of ultrasound and ultrasound with peripheral nerve stimulator guided techniques for brachial plexus block in upper limb surgeries

Assessment of the technique of the anesthetic block of the Brachial Plexus by Supraclavicular approach in Sapajus libidinosus (SPIX, 1823).

The aim of study was to evaluate the efficacy of the supraclavicular brachial plexus block technique in Sapajus libidinosus. Were used eight animals, which were sedated, anesthetized, kept under hypnosis, and submitted to plexus block using a neurolocalizer. The physiological parameters, the nociception and response threshold (mA), were evaluated before and after the block. The response to electrical stimulation and cutaneous sensitivity were evaluated. The groups were compared by the Tukey or Friedman test at 5%. The technique promoted blockage of the plexus, and movement of the thoracic limb in response to electrical stimulation decreased after 10minutes. The applied milliampere increased after 5minutes. The cutaneous sensitivity reflex decreased. The average time of return of spontaneous limb movement exceeded 50minutes. The use of 5mg/kg of lidocaine 2% promoted loss of cutaneous sensitivity and limb muscle relaxation during the evaluation period.

A Comparative Study of Different Techniques of Brachial Plexus Block in Upper Limb Surgery

Background: Different techniques of Brachial Plexus block in upper limb surgery depending on the site of operation the approach of the brachial plexus was chosen. For the operations around the shoulder joint interscalene approach was chosen; for the operations up to the shoulder either interscalene or supraclavicular or Infraclavicular routes were chosen and for the operations up to and around the elbow joint any one of the four approaches were tried. Objective of this study was to evaluate its clinical applications and practical utility in providing good analgesia for the upper extremity surgery in elective as well as emergency cases.Design: This was a hospital based retrospective study. Duration: One Year i.e. from June 2018 to June 2019. Participants: 80 patients.Subjects and Methods:The present study includes 80 blocks of brachial plexus by four different routes. 1. Supraclavicular approach – 20 cases. 2. Infraclavicular approach – 20 cases. 3. Axillary perivascular approach – 20 cases. 4. Interscalene – 20 cases. The cases were selected at random, who were subjected for various types of surgery of upper extremity both elective and emergency as in-patients.Results:In this series of 80 blocks, when the type of the surgery (emergency or elective) is considered, it has been that about one third of the patients underwent emergency surgery successfully with the brachial plexus block. In the remaining two-third of the patients, the surgery was planned procedure.Conclusion:Thus, our study reveals that the brachial plexus block can be equally safely employed for emergency surgery as for any elective procedure. Some-times the brachial plexus block can be the only choice with no alternatives affording a reasonable chance to a moribund patient to undergo emergency surgery. The dosage of the drug was modified according to the patient’s general condition.

Brachial plexus block with ultrasound guidance for upper-limb trauma surgery in children: a retrospective cohort study of 565 cases

BackgroundUpper-limb trauma is a common indication for surgery in children, and general anaesthesia remains the method of choice for these procedures, even though suitable techniques of brachial plexus block are available and fast provision of regional anaesthesia offers a number of distinct advantages. MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed of the data of a large cohort of children undergoing ultrasound-guided brachial plexus blocks during a 4-yr period at a major trauma centre with a catchment area of 3.5 million. A total of 565 cases were sourced from two independently operating patient documentation systems. Patient data were stratified into age groups with block success as the primary outcome parameter. The influence of age on the incidence of block failure was assessed with logistic regression. ResultsThe block failure rate was 5.1%, starting at 1.2% in the youngest (0–3 yr), then continuously increasing up to 12.5% in the oldest (15–18 yr) but also smallest group. Age emerged as an independent predictor of block failure with an odds ratio of 1.115 and a 95% confidence interval of 1.014–1.226 (P=0.025). No complications were observed. ConclusionsIn a cohort of children receiving real-world care, with regional blocks performed by a range of anaesthetists with different skill levels, a success rate of 94.9% for upper-limb blocks in children under various levels of sedation was observed. Upper-limb blocks can be performed with high probability of success and an excellent margin of safety; this particularly applies to small children. Clinical trial registrationNCT03842423.

Ultrasound-guided axillary approach for brachial plexus block reduces block onset time compared to midhumeral approach

Aim: Brachial plexus block under ultrasonography guidance is a successful and frequently used anesthesia method for hand, wrist and forearm surgery. Brachial plexus block can be performed with axillary or midhumeral approach technique. In this study, we aimed to compare the intraoperative and postoperative anesthetic and analgesic properties of axillary or midhumeral approach in ultrasonography-guided brachial plexus block.Material and Methods: This randomized, controlled, double-blind, single-center study included 90 ASA I-III risk patients, aged 18-70 years, who underwent hand, wrist and forearm surgery. In Group I, axillary; in Group II, midhumeral approach techniques were performed for brachial plexus block. Cold test was used to evaluate sensory block, and three-point scale was used to evaluate motor block. Postoperative pain was assessed by visual analog scale.Results: There was no statistical difference between age, height, weight, BMI and gender characteristics of the patients included in the study. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of block onset and regression times on both sensory and motor examination (p&amp;gt; 0.05). The main result was that axillary approach shortens the complete block onset time on both sensory and motor examination (p &amp;lt;0.05). Another important result was that axillary approach provides higher surgeon and patient satisfaction levels significantly comparing to mid-humeral approach (p &amp;lt;0.05). Conclusion: Both approaches can be applied successfully in brachial plexus block and can be used effectively in elective surgeries. In patients who underwent axillary approach technique for brachial plexus block, full block onset time is earlier than in patients undergoing midhumeral approach technique. Therefore, axillary approach technique may be preferred in cases requiring urgent surgical intervention.

Comparative Study between Ketamine and Magnesium Sulfate as Adjuvant to Bupivacaine in Ultrasound Guided Supra-Clavicular Brachial Plexus Block

Abstract Background In modern anesthesia practice, peripheral nerve block has a significant contributory role. Safety and accepted success rate have made this technique of anesthesia as very popular in ambulatory and inpatient anesthesia. Aim of the Work is to compare onset, degree of blockade, duration of blockade, duration of postoperative analgesia, and associated side effects after adding either magnesium sulfate or Ketamine to bupivacaine for performing supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Blocks for upper-limb surgeries. Patients and Methods After obtaining approval from the Research Ethical Committee of Ain Shams University, this study was conducted in the operating theatres of Ain Shams University Hospital. Randomized controlled double blinded study. Results Regarding the assessment of sensory block in the study, Onset times (mean ± SD) were (22.15 ± 3.20) mins, (17.35 ± 4.12) and (15.42 ± 3.23) mins in control, Magnesium and ketamin groups respectively. Adding ketamine or Magnesium significantly fastened the onset of sensory block with a highly significant difference (P &amp;lt; 0.001) in comparison to control group. These results also demonstrated that Ketamin fastened the onset time more than Magnesium but there was no statistically significant difference between two groups. Conclusion Ultrasound guidance should be used as a routine technique for brachial plexus block and anaesthetists should gain experience in the application of ultrasound in all nerve blocks. Lower volumes and different types and concentrations of local anaesthetics should be tried in order to maintain effectiveness and decrease incidence of complications. Different doses of ketamin and magnesium sulfate should be tried to detect the ideal dose to be used as additive to local anaesthetics.