A comparative study on the effectiveness of bupivacaine and ropivacaine for supraclavicular block

Background: Bupivacaine and Ropivacaine have been extensively studied &their properties with respect to onset, duration and quality of block. This study aims to detect whether addition of clonidine to both of them changes their properties. This study also aims to use lower than usual dosages for both the local anesthetics to prevent adverse effects of local anesthetics.Methods: After obtaining ethical approval, the study was carried out on patients undergoing elective upper limb surgeries. They were randomly divided into two Groups: Group B and Group R. The onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade and other parameters were assessed.Results: The onset of blockade, both sensory & motor was earlier in Ropivacaine as compared to Bupivacaine group. Mean duration of blockade, both sensory & motor, was more in the Bupivacaine group.  Conclusions: Addition of Clonidine enabled the use of low concentrations (0.25%) of both the anesthetics. Also, Ropivacaine (0.25%) has faster onset of sensory and motor blockade, shorter duration of action and less motor blockade compared to Bupivacaine.