Introduction. The use of ultrasound (US) for brachial plexus block has increased enthusiasm because the anesthesiologist can visualize anatomy, needle placement, and local anesthetic spread during locoregional anesthesia. The objectives of this prospective study was to evaluate the efficacy and the safety of ultrasound guided brachial plexus block comparative with traditional method of neurostimulation. Material and methods. In this randomized controlled clinical trial we included patients over 18 years old with upper limb surgery and who benefit of brachial plexus block (axillary, interscalenic or combined blocks). After monitoring and sedation, the patients randomly received ultrasound-guided (62 pts.) or neuro stimulation (63 pts.) brachial plexus block with ropivacaine 0.5%. We recorded data about: block success rate, sensitive and motor block onset time, block performance time, immediate and late complications events, patient’s satisfaction rate. The results were statistically analyzed, with significance assumed at p<0.05. Results. Block success rate with ultrasound guidance was very high (93.5% in US group and 84% in NS group). The patients of US group received less volume of local anesthetic (20.89 ± 3.9 ml vs. 43 ± 5.1 ml in NS group, p < 0.05). The performance time, needle punctures, sensory and motor onset time was significant reduced in US group. In the NS group we recorded 2 local anesthetic systemic toxicity (minor-moderate neurologic symptoms) with complete recovery and none in US group. We recorded less paresthesia during block performance and vascular puncture due to US guidance (p<0.05). Patient acceptance with locoregional anesthesia is good, even patients experience more discomfort during neurostimulation technique. Conclusions. The results of this study suggest that both techniques of execution of brachial plexus block are adequate for upper limb surgery but US guidance provides significant benefits for patients in terms of efficacy and safety.
A clinical comparison of vertical infraclavicular brachial plexus block using 0.75% or 0.5% ropivacaine for upper limb surgery
