The Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Brachial Plexus Block in Trauma Patients

PURPOSE: We evaluated the efficacy of brachial plexus block under the guide of ultrasonography for immediate management of open wound in patients with multiple trauma. METHODS: From July 2012 to April 2013, 34 patients with multiple trauma had brachial plexus block for immediate management of open wound in the upper extremity. We evaluated the patient satisfaction of the anesthesia and any complications related to the block. RESULTS: During the brachial plexus block, intravascular injection of lidocaine occurred in one patient. Except this, all patients who received brachial plexus replied they would choose brachial plexus block if they had to undergo the same surgery. CONCLUSION: Brachial plexus block is an effective anesthesia technique in the immediate management of open wound in upper extremities.

Surgical Management of Pisiform Bone Deformity Associated with Tendonitis of Flexor Carpi Ulnaris

PURPOSE: This study was performed to investigate the degree of symptom improvement after removal of bone fragment in patients with deformed pisiform bone associated with tendonitis of flexor carpi ulnaris. METHODS: Pisiform bone fragment removal was performed in 12 patients who had failed conservative treatment from January 2008 to December 2011. They were followed up at 2 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, 6 months, and 12 months after surgery. Their symptoms were assessed with Green score. RESULTS: Eleven of 12 patients who underwent bone fragment removal showed symptom improvement. Symptoms worsened in 1 patient due to pain and restricted range of motion caused by postoperative scar. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that removal of bone fragment may be an effective treatment in patients with tendonitis of flexor carpi ulnaris accompanied by pisiform bone deformity whose pain does not improve with conservative management.