Comparative study of lateral approach and subclavian perivascular approach of supraclavicular brachial plexus block using the peripheral nerve stimulators

Introduction: Supraclavicular Brachial plexus block is commonly used for upper limb surgeries. Supraclavicular block described as spinal of the arm because of the dense motor and sensory blocked below mid humerus. Advantages of the supraclavicular block are potent intraoperative and postoperative analgesia, reduction in stress response, reduction in opioid requirements and general anesthesia-related side effects. The Aim of the study: To evaluate the success rate as well as the quality of blockade and clinical efficacy of the Lateral approach compared with the Subclavian Perivascular approach of brachial plexus block for upper limb surgeries and both approach guided by peripheral nerve stimulators. Materials and methods: Sixty patients of ASA grade I and II of either sex undergoing upper limb surgeries were randomly allocated into two groups I and II. Each group comprises of 30 patients. Surgery was done under the Lateral approach of Brachial plexus Block in group I and under the subclavian perivascular approach of Brachial plexus block in group II. Results: Time to perform the block was shorter, Number of attempts was less and complications were less by the Lateral approach when compared to subclavian Perivascular approach. Conclusion: Supraclavicular block of brachial plexus by Lateral approach provides an adequate sensory blockade and motor blockade, with less time to perform block and reduced number of attempts and good tourniquet tolerance, and high success rate and fewer complications when compared to subclavian perivascular approach.