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).
