Publication:

Comparative study of ropivacaine alone versus ropivacaine with dexamethasone in supraclavicular brachial plexus block

Background Brachial plexus block is often used either as an adjuvant to general anesthesia (GA) or as a sole anesthesia modality. Supraclavicular brachial plexus block is preferred for its rapid onset, reliable anesthesia and as a safe technique for any surgery in the upper extremity that does not involve the shoulder. We have attempted to undertake this study to compare the haemodynamic, sensory and motor effects of the anaesthetic effect of Ropivacaine alone and Ropivacaine along with Dexamethasone in Supraclavicular Brachial Block in upper limb surgery.

Methods The total duration of surgery was also comparable in both groups. The onset of the sensory and the motor block in bother the groups were similar to each other with no statistical difference, but there was a very high significance in the duration of both sensory and motor block within both the groups.

Results The total duration of surgery was also comparable in both groups. The onset of the sensory and the motor block in bother the groups were similar to each other with no statistical difference, but there was a very high significance in the duration of both sensory and motor block within both the groups.

Conclusions Dexamethasone added to ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial block for upper limb surgery significantly shortens the onset time and prolongs the duration of sensory and motor blocks without producing sedation in patients.