Continuous Interscalene Brachial Plexus Blocks: An Anatomical Challenge between Scylla and Charybdis?

Brachial plexus blocks at the interscalene level are frequently chosen by physicians and recommended by textbooks for providing regional anesthesia and analgesia to patients scheduled for shoulder surgery. Published data concerning interscalene single-injection or continuous brachial plexus blocks report good analgesic effects. The principle of interscalene catheters is to extend analgesia beyond the duration of the local anesthetic's effect through continuous infusion, as opposed to a single injection. However, in addition to the recognized beneficial effects of interscalene blocks, whether administered as a single injection or through a catheter, there have been reports of consequences ranging from minor side effects to severe, life-threatening complications. Both can be simply explained by direct mispuncture, as well as undesired local anesthetic spread or misplaced catheters. In particular, catheters pose a high risk when advanced or placed uncontrollably, a fact confirmed by reports of fatal outcomes. Secondary catheter dislocations explain side effects or loss of effectiveness that may occur hours or days after the initial correct function has been observed. From an anatomical and physiological perspective, this appears logical: the catheter tip must be placed near the plexus in an anatomically tight and confined space. Thus, the catheter's position may be altered with the movement of the neck or shoulder, e.g., during physiotherapy. The safe use of interscalene catheters is therefore a balance between high analgesia quality and the control of side effects and complications, much like the passage between Scylla and Charybdis. We are convinced that the anatomical basis crucial for the brachial plexus block procedure at the interscalene level is not sufficiently depicted in the common regional anesthesia literature or textbooks. We would like to provide a comprehensive anatomical survey of the lateral neck, with special attention paid to the safe placement of interscalene catheters.

Intravenous Versus Perineural Dexamethasone for Reducing Rebound Pain After Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) is a common regional technique to manage acute postoperative pain for arthroscopic rotator cuff tear repair. However, rebound pain may compromise its overall benefit. Our aim was to investigate the primary hypothesis that perineural and intravenous dexamethasone have different effects on rebound pain after resolution of ISB for arthroscopic rotator cuff tear repair. METHODS: Patients aged ≥ 20 years scheduled for elective arthroscopic rotator cuff tear repair under general anesthesia with preoperative ISB were included. The participants were randomized to receive dexamethasone either perineurally (perineural group) or intravenously (intravenous group). In the perineural group, patients received ISB with 12 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine containing 5 mg of dexamethasone; simultaneously, 1 mL of 0.9% normal saline was administered intravenously. In the intravenous group, patients received ISB with 12 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine; simultaneously, 1 mL of dexamethasone 5 mg was administered intravenously. The primary outcome was the difference in the pain score (0-10 on numeric rating scale) between before and after ISB resolution. The secondary outcomes were the incidence of rebound pain; onset, duration, and intensity of rebound pain; time to the first analgesic request; and pain-related sleep disturbance. RESULTS: A total of 71 patients were randomized to either perineural group (n = 36) or intravenous group (n = 35). After block resolution, pain scores increased significantly more in the perineural group (mean ± standard deviation, 4.9 ± 2.1) compared to the intravenous group (4.0 ± 1.7, P = 0.043). The duration of ISB was more prolonged in the perineural group (median [interquartile range], 19.9 [17.2-23.1] hours) than the intravenous group (15.1 [13.7-15.9] hours, P < 0.001). The incidence of rebound pain and pain-related sleep disturbance during the first postoperative week was significantly higher in the perineural group than in the intravenous group (rebound pain: 44.4% vs. 20.0%, P = 0.028; sleep disturbance: 55.6% vs. 25.7%, P = 0.011). The duration and intensity of rebound pain were similar between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Although perineural dexamethasone provided longer postoperative analgesia, intravenous dexamethasone was more beneficial in reducing pain increase after ISB resolution, incidence of rebound pain, and pain-related sleep disturbance. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Research Information Service Identifier: KCT0006795.

Ultrasound-guided superficial cervical plexus block combined with clavipectoral fascial plane block or interscalene brachial plexus block in clavicle surgery: a single-centre, double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

The sensory innervation of the clavicle is complex, and the best regional block technology for clavicular surgery has yet to be determined. The purpose of this study was to compare the application of ultrasound-guided superficial cervical plexus block combined with clavipectoral fascial plane block verses interscalene brachial plexus block in clavicular surgery. Fifty patients undergoing internal fixation surgery for elective clavicle fractures were randomly divided into two groups (n = 25 for each group): group I and group II. Superficial cervical plexus block combined with clavipectoral fascial plane block was used in group I, and superficial cervical plexus block combined with interscalene brachial plexus block was used in group II. The primary outcome measure was the duration of analgesia. The duration of analgesia in group I was significantly longer than that in group II (P < 0.05). The modified Bromage scale function score in group II was lower than that in group I (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the skin acupuncture pain score 30 min after block and visual analog scale (VAS) scores at 6 and 12 h after surgery. However, the 24 h VAS score in group I was lower than that in group II (P < 0.05). The incidence of diaphragmatic paralysis was significantly increased in group II (P < 0.01). Ultrasound-guided superficial cervical plexus block combined with clavipectoral fascial plane block can be used for clavicular surgery. It has a long postoperative analgesia time, can retain the motor function of the involved upper limb and does not cause hemidiaphragmatic paresis.Clinical trial number and registry URL: Clinical Trials.gov; Trial registration number: ChiCTR2000039383; Date of registration: 25 October 2020.

A randomised controlled trial in patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery comparing interscalene block with either 10 ml or 20 ml levobupivacaine 0.25.

The interscalene brachial plexus block is recommended for analgesia after shoulder surgery but it may cause hemidiaphragmatic dysfunction. We tested whether ipsilateral hemidiaphragmatic contraction was better after a smaller dose of local anaesthetic without impairing analgesic effect. We randomly allocated 48 adults to 10 ml or 20 ml levobupivacaine 0.25% before arthroscopic shoulder surgery. The primary outcome was hemidiaphragmatic paralysis, defined as inspiratory thickness < 1.2 times expiratory thickness, measured by ultrasound 4 h after block. Hemidiaphragmatic paralysis was recorded for 6/24 vs. 23/24 supine participants after 10 ml vs. 20 ml levobupivacaine 0.25%, respectively, and for 4/24 vs. 23/24 sitting participants, respectively, p < 0.001 for both. Pain scores after 10 ml injectate were not worse than after 20 ml injectate. Median (IQR [range]) morphine doses in the first 24 postoperative hours after 10 ml and 20 ml levobupivacaine 0.25% were 2 (0-6 [0-23]) mg vs. 1 (0-2 [0-11]) mg, respectively, p = 0.12. No participant had a complication after 10 ml interscalene levobupivacaine, whereas seven had complications after 20 ml levobupivacaine, p = 0.009. Hemidiaphragmatic function was better after 10 ml vs. 20 ml interscalene levobupivacaine 0.25% without impairing analgesia for 24 postoperative hours.

Erector spinae plane block vs interscalene brachial plexus block for postoperative analgesia management in patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopy.

BACKGROUND: Interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) is the gold standard method used for postoperative analgesia after arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Ultrasound guided erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is an interfascial plane block. The aim of this study is to compare the analgesic efficacy of ESPB and ISB after shoulder arthroscopy. The primary outcome is the comparison of the perioperative and postoperative opioid consumptions. METHODS: Sixty patients with ASA score I-II planned for arthroscopic shoulder surgery were included in the study. ESPB was planned in Group ESPB (n = 30), and ISB was planned in Group ISB (n = 30). Intravenous fentanyl patient-controlled analgesia was administered to both groups in the postoperative period. Intraoperative and postoperative opioid and analgesic consumption of both groups, side effects and complications related to opioid use, postoperative pain scores and rescue analgesic use were recorded in the first 48 h postoperatively. RESULTS: Pain scores were significantly higher in the ESPB group in the first 4 h postoperatively than in the ISB group (p < 0.05). The total fentanyl consumption and number of patients using rescue analgesics in the postoperative period were significantly higher in the ESPB group (p < 0.05). The incidence of nausea in the postoperative period was significantly higher in the ESPB group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In our study, it was seen that ISB provided more effective analgesia management compared to ESPB in patients underwent shoulder arthroscopy surgery.

Postoperative neurologic symptoms in the operative arm after shoulder surgery with interscalene blockade: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: Postoperative neurologic symptoms (PONS) in the operative arm are important complications of shoulder surgery and interscalene blockade (ISB). This systematic review aimed to compare the risk of PONS between ISB and other techniques, and the relative safety of different agents used in ISB. METHODS: Our systematic review followed Cochrane review methodology and was registered in PROSPERO. A search of MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE (Ovid), and CENTRAL (Wiley) from inception to June 2020 was completed. We included randomized or quasi-randomized trials of patients (> five years old) undergoing shoulder surgery with any ISB technique as an intervention, compared with any other nonregional or regional technique, or ISB of alternate composition or technique. The primary outcome was PONS (study author defined) assessed a minimum of one week after surgery. RESULTS: Fifty-five studies totalling 6,236 participants (median, 69; range, 30-910) were included. Another 422 otherwise eligible trials were excluded because PONS was not reported. Heterogeneity in when PONS was assessed (from one week to one year) and the diagnostic criteria used precluded quantitative meta-analysis. The most common PONS definition, consisting of one or more of paresthesia, sensory deficit, or motor deficit, was only used in 16/55 (29%) trials. Risk of bias was low in 5/55 (9%) trials and high in 36/55 (65%) trials, further limiting any inferences. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the need for a standardized PONS outcome definition and follow-up time, along with routine, rigorous measurement of PONS in trials of ISB. STUDY REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (CRD42020148496); registered 10 February 2020.

RéSUMé: OBJECTIF: Les symptômes neurologiques postopératoires (SNPO) dans le bras opéré sont une complication importante des chirurgies de l'épaule sous bloc interscalénique (BIS). Cette revue systématique visait à comparer le risque de SNPO entre le BIS et d'autres techniques, ainsi que l'innocuité relative de divers agents utilisés pour réaliser un BIS. MéTHODE: Notre revue systématique a suivi la méthodologie de révision Cochrane et a été enregistrée dans le registre PROSPERO. Une recherche a été menée dans les bases de données MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE (Ovid) et CENTRAL (Wiley) de leur création à juin 2020. Nous avons inclus les études randomisées ou quasi-randomisées de patients (> cinq ans) bénéficiant d'une chirurgie de l'épaule avec n'importe quelle technique de BIS en tant qu'intervention, comparée à toute autre technique régionale ou non régionale, ou à un BIS de composition ou de technique alternative. Le critère d'évaluation principal était les SNPO (définis par l'auteur de l'étude) évalué au moins une semaine après la chirurgie. RéSULTATS: Cinquante-cinq études totalisant 6236 participants (médiane, 69; intervalle, 30-910) ont été incluses. Quatre cent vingt-deux autres études autrement admissibles ont été exclues parce que les SNPO n'y étaient pas rapportés. L'hétérogénéité du moment auquel les SNPO ont été évalués (d'une semaine à un an) et les critères diagnostiques utilisés ont empêché la réalisation d'une méta-analyse quantitative. La définition la plus courante des SNPO, consistant en la présence de paresthésie, de déficit sensoriel et/ou de déficit moteur, n'a été utilisée que dans 16/55 (29 %) des études. Le risque de biais était faible dans 5/55 (9 %) des études et élevé dans 36/55 (65 %) des études, limitant davantage toute autre inférence. CONCLUSION: Ces résultats soulignent la nécessité d'une définition normalisée du critère de SNPO et du temps de suivi, ainsi que la nécessité d'une mesure systématique et rigoureuse des SNPO dans les études portant sur les blocs interscaléniques. ENREGISTREMENT DE L'éTUDE: PROSPERO (CRD42020148496); enregistrée le 10 février 2020.

Effect of remifentanil on post-operative analgesic consumption in patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty after interscalene brachial plexus block: a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: Remifentanil is useful in balanced anesthesia; however, there is concern regarding opioid-induced hyperalgesia. The effect of remifentanil on rebound pain, characterized by hyperalgesia after peripheral nerve block has rarely been studied. This study evaluated whether intraoperative remifentanil infusion may increase postoperative analgesic requirement in patients receiving preoperative interscalene brachial plexus block (IBP). METHODS: Sixty-eight patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery under general anesthesia were randomly allocated to remifentanil (R) or control (C) group. Preoperative IBP with 0.5% ropivacaine 15 mL was performed in all patients. Intraoperative remifentanil was administered only in the R group. Postoperative pain was controlled using intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) and rescue analgesics. The primary outcome was the dosage of fentanyl-nefopam IV-PCA infused over 24 h postoperatively. The secondary outcomes included the numeric rating scale (NRS) score recorded at 4-h intervals over 24 h, amount of rescue analgesics and total postoperative analgesics used over 24 h, occurrence of intraoperative hypotension, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and delirium. RESULTS: The dosage of fentanyl-nefopam IV-PCA was significantly less in C group than R group for postoperative 24 h. Fentanyl 101 [63-158] (median [interquartile range]) µg was used in the C group, while fentanyl 161 [103-285] µg was used in the R group (median difference 64 µg, 95% CI 10-121 µg, P = 0.02). Nefopam 8.1 [5.0-12.6] mg was used in the C group, while nefopam 12.9 [8.2-22.8] mg was used in the R group (median difference 5.1 mg, 95% CI 0.8-9.7 mg, P = 0.02). The total analgesic consumption: the sum of PCA consumption and administered rescue analgesic dose, converted to morphine milligram equivalents, was higher in the R group than C group (median difference 10.9 mg, 95% CI 3.0-19.0 mg, P = 0.01). The average NRS score, the incidence of PONV and delirium, were similar in both groups. The incidence of intraoperative hypotension was higher in R group than C group (47.1% vs. 20.6%, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Remifentanil administration during arthroscopic shoulder surgery in patients undergoing preoperative IBP increased postoperative analgesic consumption.

Hemidiaphragmatic paralysis following ultrasound-guided anterior vs. posterior suprascapular nerve block: a double-blind, randomised control trial.

Interscalene brachial plexus block provides analgesia for shoulder surgery but is associated with hemidiaphragmatic paralysis. Before considering a combined suprascapular and axillary nerve block as an alternative to interscalene brachial plexus block, evaluation of the incidence of diaphragmatic dysfunction according to the approach to the suprascapular nerve is necessary. We randomly allocated 84 patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery to an anterior or a posterior approach to the suprascapular nerve block combined with an axillary nerve block using 10 ml ropivacaine 0.375% for each nerve. The primary outcome was the incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis diagnosed by ultrasound. Secondary outcomes included: characterisation of the hemidiaphragmatic paralysis over time; numeric rating scale pain scores; oral morphine equivalent consumption; and patient satisfaction. The incidence of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis was 40% (n = 17) vs. 2% (n = 1) in the anterior and posterior groups, respectively (p < 0.001). In one third of patients with hemidiaphragmatic paralysis, it persisted beyond the eighth hour. The median (interquartile range [range]) oral morphine equivalent consumption was significantly higher in the posterior approach when compared with the anterior approach, whether in the recovery area (20 [5-31 (0-60)] mg vs. 7.5 [0-14 (0-52)] mg, respectively; p = 0.004) or during the first 24 h (82 [61-127 (12-360) mg] vs. 58 [30-86 (0-160)] mg, respectively; p = 0.01). Patient satisfaction was comparable between groups (p = 0.6). Compared with the anterior approach, diaphragmatic function is best preserved with the posterior needle approach to the suprascapular nerve block.

Dexmedetomidine combined with interscalene brachial plexus block has a synergistic effect on relieving postoperative pain after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

PURPOSE: Interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) is one of the most commonly used regional blocks in relieving postoperative pain after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is an alpha 2 agonist that can enhance the effect of regional blocks. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of DEX combined with ISB with ISB alone on postoperative pain, satisfaction, and pain-related cytokines within the first 48 h after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: Fifty patients with rotator cuff tears who had undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were enrolled in this single center, double-blinded randomized controlled trial study. Twenty-five patients were randomly allocated to group 1 and received ultrasound-guided ISB using a mixture of 1 ml (100 µg) of DEX and 8 ml of 0.75% ropivacaine preemptively. The other 25 patients were allocated to group 2 and underwent ultrasound-guided ISB alone using a mixture of 1 ml of normal saline and 8 ml of ropivacaine. The visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and patient satisfaction (SAT) scores were checked within 48 h postoperatively. The plasma interleukin (IL)-6, -8, -1ß, cortisol, and substance P levels were also measured within 48 h, postoperatively. RESULTS: Group 1 showed a significantly lower mean VAS score and a significantly higher mean SAT score than group 2 at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 h postoperatively. Compared with group 2, group 1 showed a significantly lower mean plasma IL-6 level at 1, 6, 12, and 48 h postoperatively and a significantly lower mean IL-8 level at 1, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h postoperatively. The mean timing of rebound pain in group 1 was significantly later than that in group 2 (12.7 h > 9.4 h, p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound-guided ISB with DEX in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair led to a significantly lower mean VAS score and a significantly higher mean SAT score within 48 h postoperatively than ISB alone. In addition, ISB with DEX showed lower mean plasma IL-6 and IL-8 levels than ISB alone within 48 h postoperatively, with delayed rebound pain. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: I. TRIAL REGISTRATION: 2013-112, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02766556.

Dexamethasone added to levobupivacaine prolongs the duration of interscalene brachial plexus block and decreases rebound pain after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

BACKGROUND: It has been reported that the addition of dexamethasone to interscalene brachial plexus block (ISBPB) prolongs the duration of the block effect. However, there have been no studies focusing on the effects of dexamethasone on rebound pain after the block effect has worn off. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect on postoperative pain when dexamethasone was added to ISBPB for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). METHODS: In this multicenter, single-blinded, and randomized controlled study, 54 patients (33 males, 21 females) who received ARCR were randomly assigned to group L (ISBPB with 20 cc of 0.25% levobupivacaine; 21 patients) or group LD (ISBPB with 20 cc of 0.25% levobupivacaine + 3.3 mg dexamethasone; 33 patients). The primary outcome was the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain after the block effect had worn off. Secondary outcomes were the duration of analgesia, the time to the first request for additional analgesic, the number of additional doses of analgesic, and complications. RESULTS: The VAS scores on postoperative days 0 and 1 were significantly lower in group LD than group L (P = .005, .035). This indicated that the rebound pain was relieved in group LD. After postoperative day 1, there was no significant difference in VAS score (P = .43 and .19 for days 2 and 3, respectively). The duration of analgesia was significantly longer in group LD than group L (P < .001). The time to the first request for additional analgesic was significantly longer in group LD than group L (P < .001). The number of additional doses of analgesic was significantly lower in group LD (P < .001). CONCLUSION: In ARCR, the addition of dexamethasone to levobupivacaine not only prolongs the duration of ISBPB but also relieves rebound pain after the block effect wears off.

Intra-operative effect of interscalene brachial plexus block to arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery.

INTRODUCTION: To determine whether the placement of an interscalene brachial plexus block (IBPB) with general anaesthesia before shoulder arthroscopy would be effective in establishing a clear visual field and in shortening the surgical procedure. METHOD: This prospective randomized control trial study included 152 patients who had undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Group A received IBPB and group B did not receive IBPB. A visual clarity scale (VCS) was determined by arthroscopic visualization. The systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), duration of surgical procedure, VCS, and medication that was administered for haemodynamic stability were recorded. RESULTS: The VCS was improved in group A at stages 2 and 3 of the surgical procedures (p < 0.05), but there were no significant difference at stages 1 (p = 0.288) and 4 (p = 0.062). SBP, DBP, and HR were higher in group B during surgery (p < 0.05). The administered analgesics were higher in group B (p = 0.003), but there were no differences in hypotensive agents (p = 0.287). No significant difference was observed for the duration of surgery (p = 0.704). CONCLUSIONS: Pre-operative IBPB with general anaesthesia for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair was beneficial in maintaining haemodynamic stability and improving the VCS during surgery.

Post-operative pain control following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: peri-articular injection versus interscalene brachial plexus block.

PURPOSE: To compare post-operative pain relief with peri-articular injection (PI) versus interscalene brachial plexus block (IBPB) after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) surgery. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 121 consecutive patients undergoing ARCR surgery divided into two groups: the PI group and the IBPB group. We compared complications and self-reported pain score measured using a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) during the initial 24 hours after surgery. RESULTS: The NRS scores recorded in the recovery room (0), 0.5, and four hours post-operatively were higher in the PI group (n = 38) than the IBPB group (n = 52) (2.1 vs. 0.8, p = 0.014; 1.4 vs. 0.5, p = 0.0069; and 1.3 vs. 0.5, p = 0.012, respectively). However, the NRS scores recorded at 16, 20, and 24 hours post-operatively were lower in the PI group than in the IBPB group (1.4 vs. 3.1, p < 0.0001; 1.4 vs. 3.2, p < 0.0001; and 1.7 vs. 3.2, p = 0.00046, respectively). The incidences of post-operative nausea and temporary numbness in the upper arm were significantly lower in the PI group than in the IBPB group (7.9% vs. 33%, p = 0.0052; and 13% vs. 85%, p < 0.0001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Although IBPB provided superior pain control during the initial few hours after ARCR surgery, PI was superior from 16 to 24 hours post-operatively. The rates of side effects, such as nausea and temporary arm numbness, were also lower in the PI group than in the IBPB group.

The estimation of minimum effective volume of 0.5% ropivacaine in ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus nerve block: A clinical trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) is the most commonly used mode of anesthesia for upper limb surgeries. Higher volume of local anesthetic used in ISB is associated with increased incidence of side effects, particularly phrenic nerve palsy. The aim of this study was to determine the minimum effective volume of 0.5% ropivacaine in 90% patients (MEV90) in ISB. MATERIAL AND METHODS: With target of 45 successful cases, phase 1 clinical trial was conducted based on the principles of biased coin design up-and-down method. After obtaining Ethical Committee's approval and patient's consent, patients with American Society of Anesthesiologist physical status (ASA PS) I and II, aged 18-60 years of either sex, undergoing upper arm surgery were recruited into the study until 45 successful cases. A 7 ml of 0.5% ropivacaine was used as starting dose, with patients receiving a higher or lower dose depending on previous patient's response. R package, SPSS 23, and Microsoft Excel were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: MEV90 of 0.5% ropivacaine for ISB was determined as 8.64 ml [confidence interval (CI) 95%, 8.28-9.02 ml]. Time for onset of sensory block and motor block was 5 min (5-15 min) and 10 min (5-20 min), respectively, while duration of analgesia was observed as 8.2 (4.8-12.5) h. CONCLUSIONS: This study observes that surgical anesthesia can be accomplished with 8.64 ml (95% CI: 8.28-9.02 ml) of 0.5% ropivacaine with ultrasound-guided ISB with multiple injection technique, without clinical deterioration in block onset and duration of analgesia.

Effects of arthroscopy-guided suprascapular nerve block combined with ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to compare the pain relieving effect of ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) combined with arthroscopy-guided suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) with that of ultrasound-guided ISB alone within the first 48 h after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: Forty-eight patients with rotator cuff tears who had undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were enrolled. The 24 patients in group 1 received ultrasound-guided ISB and arthroscopy-guided SSNB; the remaining 24 patients in group 2 underwent ultrasound-guided ISB alone. Visual analogue scale pain score and patient satisfaction score were checked at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 48 h post-operatively. RESULTS: Group 1 had a lower visual analogue scale pain score at 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 48 h post-operatively (1.7 < 2.6, 1.6 < 4.0, 3.5 < 5.8, 3.6 < 5.2, 3.2 < 4.2, 1.3 < 2.0), and a higher patient satisfaction score at 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36 h post-operatively than group 2 (7.8 > 6.0, 6.2 > 4.3, 6.4 > 5.1, 6.9 > 5.9, 7.9 > 7.1). Six patients in group 1 developed rebound pain twice, and the others in group 1 developed it once. All of the patients in group 2 had one rebound phenomenon each (p = 0.010). The mean timing of rebound pain in group 1 was later than that in group 2 (15.5 > 9.3 h, p < 0.001), and the mean size of rebound pain was smaller in group 1 than that in group 2 (2.5 > 4.0, p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopy-guided SSNB combined with ultrasound-guided ISB resulted in lower visual analogue scale pain scores at 3-24 and 48 h post-operatively, and higher patient satisfaction scores at 6-36 h post-operatively with the attenuated rebound pain compared to scores in patients who received ultrasound-guided ISB alone after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. The combined blocks may relieve post-operative pain more effectively than the single block within 48 h after arthroscopic cuff repair. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Randomized controlled trial, Level I. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02424630.

Particulate-steroid betamethasone added to ropivacaine in interscalene brachial plexus block for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair improves postoperative analgesia.

BACKGROUND: Dexamethasone added to local anesthetic for brachial plexus block improves postoperative pain after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, as compared with the use of local anesthetic alone. Dexamethasone is present in non-particulate form in local anesthetic solution, while betamethasone is partially present in particulate form. The particulate betamethasone gradually decays and is expected to cause its longer-lasting effect. This study investigated the postoperative analgesic effect of betamethasone added to ropivacaine for brachial plexus block in patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized, triple-blind study of 44 patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery. Ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block, involving 20 mL of 0.375 % ropivacaine (group R) or 19 mL of 0.375 % ropivacaine with 4 mg (1 mL) of betamethasone (group BR), was administered and surgery was performed under general anesthesia. After surgery, the pain score was recorded at 12 h after surgery, and on the first, second, and seventh postoperative day. Analgesia duration, offset time of motor block, frequency of rescue analgesic administration, postoperative nausea/vomiting, and sleep disturbance during the night after surgery were recorded. The numerical values were expressed as median [interquartile range]. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The duration of analgesia was significantly prolonged in group BR (group BR: 19.1 h [16.6, 20.9 h], group R: 13.3 h [11.6, 16.5 h], p < 0.001). The pain scores at 12 h after surgery and on the first and seventh day after surgery were significantly lower in group BR than in group R. The duration of motor block was significantly prolonged in group BR. The frequency of rescue analgesic administration and the sleep disturbance rate were significantly lower in group BR. There was no difference in postoperative nausea/vomiting between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Betamethasone added to local anesthetic in interscalene brachial plexus block improved postoperative pain after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, and betamethasone prolonged the duration of analgesia by almost 6 h. TRIAL REGISTRATION: University Hospital Medical Information Network Center Clinical Trials Registration System ( UMIN000012899 ).

Effects of a fixed low-dose ropivacaine with different volume and concentrations on interscalene brachial plexus block: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Ultrasound guidance has reduced the amount of local anesthetics to achieve a successful block. Previous studies of the relationship between the volume or concentration of local anesthetics and the effects of the block were based on relatively high doses of local anesthetics. We tested the hypothesis that providing low dose of ropivacaine at three combinations of volumes and concentrations for ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block would produce different effects in the aspect of onset time, pain control and the incidence of side effects. METHODS: Ninety-nine patients undergoing elective arthroscopic shoulder surgery were randomized to receive an ultrasound guided combined with nerve stimulator mediated interscalene block with ropivacaine 0.75 % (6.7 ml, Group 0.75), 0.5 % (10 ml, Group 0.5) or 0.25 % (20 ml, Group 0.25). The primary end point was the onset time of the sensory blockade, assessed by using a pinprick in the C5-6 dermatome. The secondary end points included the onset time of the motor blockade, block success rate, postoperative pain rating score, rescue analgesics requirement, sleep quality, strength of the hand on the block side,and the incidence of hemi-diaphragmatic paresis which was evaluated by ultrasonography. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference of the sensory block median onset times among Group 0.75 (5 min), Group 0.5 (10 min) and Group 0.25 (20 min). One patient in Group 0.5 and 20 patients in Group 0.25 did not achieve a complete motor block within 30 min, which were also significantly different. No significant difference was observed in postoperative analgesia, decrease of handgrip strength and the incidence of hemi-diaphragmatic paresis among the 3 groups. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that ropivacaine 50 mg as 0.25, 0.5 or 0.75 % solution for interscalene brachial plexus block before arthroscopic shoulder surgery produces comparable blockade with few side effects, while 0.75 % seems to be more preferable as it is associated with faster onset time. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR-TRC-13004058 . Registered 4 December 2013.

Local infiltration analgesia versus continuous interscalene brachial plexus block for shoulder replacement pain: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder replacement involves significant post-operative pain, which is often managed by continuous interscalene brachial plexus block. Catheter displacement and complications limit the beneficial effect of the block. Local infiltration analgesia (LIA) has provided good results in knee replacement. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of LIA for pain after shoulder replacement. METHODS: Patients scheduled for primary shoulder replacement under general anaesthesia were randomized to receive either local infiltration analgesia (LIA) (150 ml ropivacaine 0.2 % with epinephrine intra-operatively) or interscalene brachial plexus catheter (ISC) (ropivacaine 0.75 %, 7 ml bolus followed by 48-h 5 ml/h infusion). The primary outcome was opioid consumption during the first 24 post-operative hours. Secondary outcomes were pain ratings, supplementary analgesics, and side effects for 3 days, and complications until 3 months after surgery. RESULTS: Data were analysed for 61 patients (LIA 30, ISC 31). Twenty-four-hour opioid consumption was higher in the LIA group compared with the ISC group: median (IQR) 95 mg (70-150 mg) versus 40 mg (8-76 mg) (P = 0.0001). No significant difference in opioid consumption was found between groups during the following 3 days. The LIA group had higher pain scores at 0, 2, 4, and 8 h. Two patients in the ISC group had long-lasting complications. CONCLUSIONS: The LIA technique cannot be recommended for shoulder replacement unless substantially modified. Occurrence of inadequate analgesia and complications following interscalene brachial plexus block prompt further studies into pain management after shoulder replacement.

Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block for Acute Post-Hepatectomy Shoulder Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block in the treatment of shoulder pain following hepatectomy. Design: A randomized controlled trial. Methods: We conducted a single-center, randomized controlled trial. Forty-four patients with shoulder pain scores of at least 5 were randomly assigned to two groups: the treatment group, which received 0.5% ropivacaine (5mL) combined with dexamethasone (5 mg) (n=22), and the control group, which received normal saline (5mL) (n=22). The intervention was performed in the postanesthesia care unit after shoulder pain was identified by using the visual analogue scale. The shoulder pain was re-evaluated 15 minutes after intervention. The incidence of effective pain relief, defined as at least 75% reduction in pain intensity, was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included shoulder pain intensity within 2 days after surgery, the timing of the first rescue analgesia, total additional analgesic use, arterial oxygen saturation, intervention-related adverse reactions, and patient satisfaction regarding shoulder pain. Results: The incidence of effective pain relief was significantly higher in the treatment group compared to the control group (15 (68.2%) vs 2 (9.1%), P<0.001). The interscalene brachial plexus block not only prolonged the time to first analgesic request (P <0.001), but also reduced the number of analgesic requests (P <0.001). In the comparison between groups, arterial oxygen saturation was lower in the control group than that in the treatment group, attributed to the use of sufentanil for remedial analgesia (92.4% vs 94.5%, P=0.014). Conclusion: Interscalene brachial plexus block can effectively relieve post-hepatectomy shoulder pain without clinically significant hypoxemia.

Continuous epidural analgesia and interscalene brachial plexus block as postoperative analgesia for Pancoast tumor resection: a case report.

Background: Pancoast tumor resection is associated with severe postoperative pain. In addition to wound pain, patients often complain of shoulder and upper extremity pain due to brachial plexus damage, making pain management difficult. We attempted to perform a continuous brachial plexus block in addition to continuous epidural analgesia. Case Description: For a 58-year-old man, left upper lobectomy and chest wall resection around the pulmonary apex was planned for the left Pancoast tumor. In this case, the appearance of neuropathic pain in the shoulder and upper extremity due to the effects of brachial plexus injury associated with the surgical operation was expected. General anesthesia was introduced after insertion of the epidural catheter, followed by insertion of a catheter for brachial plexus block (interscalene approach) under dual guidance of ultrasound device and nerve stimulator. For continuous epidural analgesia, a combination of 0.15% ropivacaine and fentanyl (8 µg/h) was administered at 4 mL/h. For continuous brachial plexus block, 0.15% ropivacaine was administered at 3 mL/h for 7 days. Postoperative analgesia was maintained at a Numerical Rating Scale of 2-3 for shoulder pain and 0-1 for wound pain. Conclusions: Satisfactory postoperative analgesia for Pancoast tumor resection was achieved with continuous epidural analgesia and continuous brachial plexus block.

The effect of continuous interscalene brachial plexus block for arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Background: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) is a minimally invasive surgical technique. However, it is challenging to control postoperative pain. This study aimed to investigate the difference between a single-shot interscalene block and a combined continuous block for ARCR. Methods: Ninety-four patients who underwent ARCR were included in this study. In the preceding period, 43 patients received a single-shot interscalene block and continuous postoperative intravenous opioid infusion (Single group). In the posterior period, 51 patients received a single-shot interscalene block preoperatively and a continuous block postoperatively (Continuous group). Their mean age at surgery was 64.9 years (range, 43-83 years). The mean follow-up period was 25.4 months (range, 24-54 months). The numerical rating scale (NRS) of pain was evaluated immediately after the surgery, at rest, and at night for 1-4 days after the surgery. One day postoperatively, the amount of food taken was assessed from 0 % (no food intake) to 100 % (all food taken). The University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score, range of motion (ROM), and isometric shoulder strength were evaluated. Results: NRS at rest in the Continuous group on the day of surgery was 3.7 ± 2.5. This was significantly lower than in the Single group (5.2 ± 1.8) (P = 0.002). NRS at rest in the Continuous group on the second day after surgery was 3.0 ± 2.1, significantly lower than in the Single group (3.9 ± 1.8) (P = 0.04). The amount of food taken in the morning in the Continuous group was 61 % ± 37 %, which was significantly greater than in the Single group (35 % ± 41 %) (P = 0.004). The ROM of extension at 6 months postoperatively in the Continuous group was 47 ± 7°, which was significantly greater than in the Single group (43 ± 6°) (P = 0.02). The postoperative strength of the external rotator at 6 months in the Continuous group was 95 ± 33 N, significantly greater than in the Single group (78 ± 28 N) (P = 0.01). There was no significant difference in UCLA score at any time. Conclusion: The continuous interscalene block with ultrasound guidance in ARCR effectively relieved pain. The recovery of ROM for extension and the strength of the external rotator was better in the Continuous group.