Permanent hemidiaphragmatic paresis after interscalene brachial plexus block: a case report

Abstract

Interscalene brachial plexus block has been widely used in shoulder surgery. We report one case of long-term phrenic palsy following ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block and we will discuss the possible etiology and mechanism of this disability. For painful shoulder surgery, ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block remains topical. Alternative blocks, such as suprascapular and axillary blocks, may be reserved for patients with pre-existing respiratory pathology.

Keywords

• Regional anesthetic techniques
• Interscalene block
• Neurologic symptoms