Comparative study between nerve stimulator guided technique and ultrasound guided technique for supraclavicular nerve block in upper limb surgery- A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background and Aims– Ultrasonography guided supraclavicular block is presumed to have faster onset time and increased the success rates with a reduction of the local anaesthetic dose, and also low down the complication rates. Whether or not the use of USG can improve practitioner’s ability to successfully perform a faster supraclavicular nerve block remains needs to be studied. Hence study proposes to compare nerve stimulator guided technique and ultrasound guided technique for supraclavicular nerve block in upper limb surgery. Methods- 60 adult patients, who were ASA physical status I–II and scheduled for elective upper limb surgery, were studied prospectively. 30 patients in each group to receive a supraclavicular block using either Ultrasound guidance (group U) or Nerve stimulation guidance (group P). Both the groups were injected with inj. Bupivacaine 0.5% 15ml and 2% lignocaine- with epinephrine 1:200000 15ml (total volume, 30 mL). The groups were compared in terms of Onset of sensory and motor block, Block performance time, Block success rate; hemodynamic parameters, and complications. Paired t-test and two-independent samples t-test were used for analysis. A p-value