Comparison Of Neurostimulator Use Wi̇th Ultrasound Guided Neurostimulator Use In Axillar Brachial Plexus Block: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

Comparison of neurostimulator use versus ultrasound-guided neurostimulator use in axillary brachial plexus block Objectives: Different methods may be used in application of axillar block. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of ultrasonography on block success, complications and patient satisfaction in application of axillary brachial plexus block. Methods: After obtaining approval from the ethics committee and consent of the patients, 50 ASA I-III patients over age of 20, planned to undergo forearm and hand surgery have been included in this study. Ekg, non-invasive blood pressure and peripheral oxygen saturation of the patients were monitored after their demographic data were recorded. Brachial plexus block was applied with only neurostimulator in Group I (n=25) and with ultrasonography guided neurostimulator in Group II (n=25). Number of skin punctures, presence of vascular punctures and processing time were recorded. Sensorial block formation was evaluated by pin-prick testing, motor block was evaluated by Holmenn scale and sensation of pain was evaluated with numerical pain rating scale. The operation began after duration of block formations was recorded. Need for general anesthesia and patient satisfaction were also recorded. Results: Demographic data, time of onset of motor and sensorial block, operation and process time, and pain score was found to be similar in Group I and II. Number of skin punctures and vascular punctures were significantly less in Group II. Conclusion: Block success and patient satisfaction were found to be similar in both groups but complication rate observed was significantly lower in ultrasound guided neurostimulator group (p<0.01).