IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-8-4-19095 Original Research Paper Dexamethasone as Adjuvant with 0.5% Levobupivacaine for Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block Jayanta Kumar Das Dr. April 2019 8 4 01 02 ABSTRACT

Objectives: To compare the effect of levobupivacaine with and without dexamethasone on the characteristics, efficacy and duration of analgesia in supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Methodology: 100 patients of either sex, aged between 18–60 years posted for elective surgery of forearm and hand under supraclavicular brachial plexus block were divided into two groups – Group C (control group) and group DS (dexamethasone group). Group C (n=50) received 30 ml of 0.5% isobaric Levobupivacaine with 2 ml of isotonic normal saline and Group DS (n=50) received 30 ml of 0.5% isobaric Levobupivacaine with 2 ml of dexamethasone (8mg) for supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Results: The mean onset time of sensory and motor blocks were faster in Group DS than control group. Mean duration of analgesia, sensory and motor block in Group DS were prolonged compared to Group C. Mean arterial pressure and heart rate variation in two study groups were statistically not significant at any point of study. Conclusion: Dexamethasone when added to levobupivacaine for brachial plexus block, is superior to levobupivacaine alone.