DEXAMETHASONE AND DEXMEDETOMIDINE AS ADJUVANTS TO LOCAL ANAESTHETIC MIXTURE IN SUPRACLAVICULAR BRACHIAL PLEXUS BLOCK FOR UPPER LIMB ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERIES: A PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Supraclavicular brachial plexus block (SCB) is most commonly performed in Upper limb orthopaedic surgeries. A variety of adjuvants have been used to enhance the effect of local anaesthetics in peripheral nerve block. The aim of this study was to compare the onset, duration of sensory and motor block along with duration of analgesia when dexmedetomidine or dexamethasone was added to 0.5% bupivacaine.

Methods: Sixty patients were randomized into 2 different groups to receive SCB using Inj. Bupivacaine Hydrochlorid e(0.5%) 15ml plus Inj. Lignocaine Hydrochloride (2%) 10ml along with either dexmedetomidine (1µg/kg) (Group DM) or dexamethasone 4mg (Group DX)scheduled for upper limb surgeries after taking informed consent.

Results: The time of onset of sensory and motor block was significantly less in group DX as compared to group DM. The duration of sensory and motor block as well as duration of post-operative analgesia was significantly more in group DM as compared to group DX.

Conclusion: On addition of dexmedetomidine to local anesthetic mixture will prolong the time of block and analgesia duration longer than dexamethasone but the onset of block is shorter with dexamethasone.