Comparison of Axillary and Supraclavicular Approach in Ultrasound-Guided Brachial Plexus Block

Abstract

Purpose:We examined the success rate and adverse effects of ultrasound-guided axillary and supraclavicular approach brachial plexus block. Results: Failure rate of ultrasound-guided brachial plexus block was 1.2% and 0.2% in axillary and supraclavicular approach, respectively. In supraclavicular approach brachial plexus block, Honer's syndrome was observed in 17.9%, chest discomfort in 14.9%, and arterial puncture in 1%. There was no adverse effect in axillary approach brachial plexus block. Conclusion:Ultrasound-guided brachial plexus block serves higher success rate and lower occurrence rate of adverse effect and makes it useful for hand and upper extremity surgery. Supraclavicular approach has relatively higher success rate and lower rate of adverse effect than axillary approach.