USE OF ULTRASOUND IN SUPRACLAVICULAR BRACHIAL PLEXUS BLOCK COMPARED TO CONVENTIONAL TECHNIQUE USING ANATOMICAL LANDMARKS

Manish Paul

Volume : VI, Issue : IV, April - 2017

USE OF ULTRASOUND IN SUPRACLAVICULAR BRACHIAL PLEXUS BLOCK COMPARED TO CONVENTIONAL TECHNIQUE USING ANATOMICAL LANDMARKS

Manish Paul

Abstract :

Introduction: Supraclavicular achial plexus block is an effective nerve block for upper limb surgery. This block has been classically performed using the anatomical landmark technique. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of Ultrasound guidance in performing the block and comp� the results with anatomical landmark technique.

Methods: Sixty patients ASA grade I/II in the age group 16–60 scheduled for upper limb surgery were evaluated. Thirty were administered 0.25% Bupivacaine solution under ultrasound guidance (group A) while a similar number were performed under anatomical landmark technique( Group B). Sensory block onset time, duration and any side effects/complications were noted.

Results: Shortened sensory block onset times (17.83 + 5.2 min 20.67�4.69 min sec in Group A and Group B respectively, P < 0.05) and duration (291.0�79.62 min and 190.02�57.53 min in Group A and Group B respectively, P < 0.05) was significantly longer in Ultrasound guided group.

Conclusions: We conclude that ultrasound guidance not only increases duration of analgesia but also decreases onset time of Supraclavicular achial plexus block.