Publication:

Comparison of infraclavicular brachial plexus block with supraclavicular brachial plexus block in upper limb surgeries using peripheral nerve stimulator

Background The supraclavicular approach to brachialplexus block (SCB) is indicated for operations of upper extremity distal to the shoulder; the infraclavicular block (ICB) is indicated for operations of distal arm, elbow, wrist, and hand. Objective of the study was to compare the infraclavicular brachial plexus block with supraclavicular brachial plexus block in upper limb surgeries using peripheral nerve stimulator.

Methods This prospective study was conducted among 78 patients, 39 in each group in infraclavicular block and supraclavicular block, posted for various upper limb surgeries on elective or emergency basis and compare both the groups for block performance time, onset of block, quality of block, duration of block, pulse rate, mean arterial pressure post-operative complication.

Results Duration of surgery, quality of block and success rate was almost similar in both the groups. The block performance time for infraclavicular block was more as compared to supraclavicular block. The duration of block is more in infraclavicular group as compared to supraclavicular group. The onset of sensory blockade, as well as motor blockade, was slightly earlier in supraclavicular group. Hemodynemic parameters were also almost similar in both groups. Our study encounters higher number of complications among supraclavicular group.

Conclusions Supraclavicular route require less time to perform the block and have a rapid onset of sensory and motor block, but the duration of sensory and motor blockage is less as compared to infraclavicular route. Both the groups have a similar quality of block and success rate, but the supraclavicular route is associated with various complications compared to infraclavicular route.