To Compare the Efficacy of Dexamethasone versus Normal Saline when Added As Adjuvant to 0.5% Ropivacaine in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block for Upper Extremity Surgeries

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Brachial plexus block is a reliable regional anaesthetic technique and a suitable alternative to general anaesthesia for upper limb surgery. We used dexamethasone 8 mg along with 0.5% ropivacaine for supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Aims: We aimed at assessing the effect of dexamethasone as an adjuvant with ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Methods and materials: Sixty ASA grade I and II patients, 18-60 years old, scheduled for upper limb surgeries under supraclavicular brachial plexus block, were included in this prospective study. The patients were randomly assigned to two groups, Group RS which received ropivacaine 0.5% 28 ml + 2ml normal saline and Group RD which received ropivacaine 0.5% 28 ml+ 2 ml dexamethasone (8 mg). Onset and recovery time of sensory and motor block, duration of analgesia and quality of block were studied in both groups. Results: The two groups were comparable in demographic data. Group RD showed early onset of sensory and motor block (P<0.05). Duration of sensory and motor block was also prolonged in group RD. (P<0.05) Conclusion: Addition of dexamethasone 8mg to 0.5% ropivacaine for supraclavicular brachial plexus block provides faster onset and prolonged duration of sensory and motor blockade. Keywords: Dexamethasone, Ropivacaine, supraclavicular brachial plexus block