Dexmedetomidine as an Adjuvant to Bupivacaine in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block

Abstract

Aim: This study was designed to compare the efficacy of dexmedetomidine 30µgms added to Bupivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block regarding onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade and postoperative analgesic efficacy. Methodology: This prospective double blind study was conducted in 60 patients of age 18 to 60 years posted for various upper limb surgeries and are randomly allocated into two equal groups of 30 each. Control group C received 40ml of 0.25% bupivacaine (20ml of 0.5% bupivacaine +20ml of distilled water) and group D received 40ml of0.25% bupivacaine with 30µmg of dexmedetomidine (20ml of 0.5% bupivacaine + 19.70ml of distilled water + 0.30ml of dexmedetomidine).The following parameters are observed: onset and duration of motor and sensory blocks, block durations, duration of analgesia and incidence of complications following the procedure. Results: It was observed that the onset time of both sensory and motor blocks are faster in groups D than group C and duration of both sensory and motor blockade and duration of analgesia are longer in groups D than Group C. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine even in low doses 30 micrograms added to the bupivacaine as an adjuvant hastens the onset and prolongs the duration of sensory and motor blocks and duration of analgesia with no adverse effects.