Effect of bupivacaine and bupivacaine-clonidine combination in supraclavicular brachial plexus block ? A comparative study

Addition of clonidine to local anesthetics improves peripheral nerve blocks by reducing the onset time, improving the efficacy and extending postoperative analgesia. This study evaluated the effect of Bupivacaine clonidine combination in supraclavicular brachial plexus block for upper limb surgeries. A randomized double-blind controlled trial was performed in 60 patients. Group B (n=30) patients received 25 mL 0.5% Bupivacaine and 0.2 mL of Saline, whereas group C (n = 30) received 25 mL 0.5% bupivacaine and 0.2 mL (30 mcg) clonidine through supraclavicular brachial plexus block. In both groups, differences between age, sex, ASA grades, weight, vital parameters were statistically insignificant. Time of onset of sensory blockade and motor blockade were reduced in group C compared to Group B and were statistically significant. Duration of sensory and motor blockade were prolonged in group C compared to Group B and were statistically significant. Duration of post operative analgesia was prolonged in group C compared to Group B and were statistically significant. Sedation score of patients in group C were higher than those in group C intra-operatively and postoperatively. No clinically significant differences were observed in pulse rate, mean blood pressure and oxygen saturation. Due to its sedative properties, it can reduce patient anxiety and provide optimal intra-operative and postoperative patient comfort.