[Ultrasound-guided infraclavicular block: a preliminary study of feasibility].

OBJECTIVES

To assess the feasibility of neurostimulation and ultrasound guidance combination for infraclavicular brachial plexus block (ICB) technique.

STUDY

DESIGN

Prospective study.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Fifty consecutive patients scheduled for hand, forearm or elbow surgery were included.

METHODS

A single stimulation lateral approach technique of ICB was performed. During the procedure, neurostimulation and ultrasound guidance were combined. The feasibility of ICB was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS, 0: impossible, 100: very simple) for ultrasound anatomical structures identification (VAS(Anat)) and for block placement (VAS (Block)). The success rate of ICB block was noted.

RESULTS

No patient required general anaesthesia conversion. Median VAS+/-SD of VAS(Anat) and VAS(Block) were of 84+/-15 and 96+/-7, respectively. Success rate of ICB was 96%. No specific complication of ICB technique was noted.

CONCLUSION

Combination of neurostimulation and ultrasound guidance is feasible. Combination of neurostimulation and ultrasound guidance secured ICB. Ultrasound-evidenced spread of local anaesthetics increased the success rate of ICB.