Journal of Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences University (Jan 2024)

Comparison between ultrasound guided supraclavicular and infraclavicular brachial plexus block to assess the quality of surgical anaesthesia and intraoperative tourniquet pain: A prospective randomized observer blinded study

  • Mahantesh Mudakanagoudar ,
  • B. Sai Susmitha,
  • Priyanka Gadvi

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 1
pp. 86 – 92

Abstract

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Background: The brachial plexus block is a reliable technique of regional anesthesia for procedures involving the upper limbs. Both supraclavicular and infraclavicular brachial plexus block techniques are used for brachial plexus blockade. Aim and Objectives: The present study compared Supraclavicular Brachial plexus block (SCB) with Infraclavicular Brachial plexus block (ICB) using ultrasonography (USG) in terms of quality and tourniquet pain. Material and Methods: Of the 76 subjects scheduled for elective procedures of the upper limb, all were categorized into two groups with computer-based randomization: a supraclavicular group (Group S) and infraclavicular group (Group I). USG was used to perform all the blocks. Both groups were compared in terms of the time taken to perform the block, time taken for sensory and motor block onset, time taken for complete blockade, duration of blockade, intraoperative tourniquet pain, and intraoperative and postoperative complications. Statistical analysis was performed with student unpaired ttest and chi-square test and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The time taken to perform the block was more in Group I than in Group S. Block onset time and total blockade time of the sensory and motor components were less in Group I than in Group S. Duration of the blockade was longer in Group I than in Group S. The incidence of tourniquet pain was less in Group I. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed in either group. Conclusion: Onset time for ICB was shorter with a longer duration of the blockade. Incidences of tourniquet pain were also less with a similar rate of success. Therefore, the ICB may be a better alternative to the SCB in upper limb procedures.

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