A comparative study of ultrasound guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block using bupivacaine – Lignocaine with adrenaline and dexmedetomidine added to bupivacaine – Lignocaine with adrenaline

Background and Objectives: The ultrasonographic visualization of the nerves to be blocked is a relatively new technique that holds promise for the future. The last few years have witnessed a tremendous increase in the use of ultrasound guidance for regional nerve blocks. Our study was conducted to study the effect of Dexmedetomidine added to the local an aesthetics for ultrasound guided supraclavicular block in respect to onset, duration of sensory and motor block along with duration of analgesia. Materials and Methods: After informed consent, 60 ASA I and II patients undergoing elective upperlimb surgery under ultrasound guided Supraclavicularbrachial plexus block in were divided into two equal groups in a randomized double blind fashion. Group I patients received 0.5% bupivacaine(15ml) + 2%lignocaine with adrenaline (15ml) + normal saline(0.5ml) and Group II patients received 0.5% bupivacaine(15ml) + 2% lignocaine with adrenaline (15ml) + dexmedetomidine (0.5ml-50mcg).Onset and duration of Motor and sensory block block were recorded. Results: Though with similar demographicprofile in both groups, sensory and motor block onset times was earlier in group II as compared to group I (p<0.001). Sensory and motor blockade duration were longer in group II than in group I (p<0.001).Intra-operative hemodynamicswere significantly lower in group II (P < 0.05) without any appreciable side-effects. Conclusion: We conclude that dexmedetomidine added to bupivacaine- lignocaine with adrenaline in supraclavicular brachial plexus block isextremely effective in reducing the time of onset and prolonging the duration of both sensory & motor blockade.