Continuous plexus blockade for improved circulation in microvascular surgery.

Five patients are presented who were fitted with an axillary plexus catheter for postoperative sympathetic blockade: 1 finger replantation, 3 toe-finger transfers, and 1 finger-finger transfer. This catheter caused spasmolysis and an increase in the circulation and in the acral systolic blood pressure. Simultaneously an adequate analgesic effect was achieved through the administration of local anesthetic. The muscle relaxation helped immobilize the extremity. The improved circulation, the analgesic effect, and the suppression of muscular activity through continuous plexus anesthesia help healing in replanted or transferred digits.