Determining anatomic accuracy of shoulder field injection: triangular injection technique does adequately reach pain transmitters

Abstract

Background Controlling pain after shoulder surgery is a critical component of postsurgical care. Several recent studies have described the use of periarticular, local infiltration anesthesia, and field blocks (FBs) with clinical efficacy after shoulder surgery. The anatomic accuracy and safety of these FBs have not been well described. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of a surgeon performed shoulder field injection. We hypothesized that our field injection would adequately reach the pain transmitters responsible for postsurgical shoulder pain. Methods A total of 10 cadaveric specimens were used in the study. A mixture of liposomal bupivacaine, normal saline, and methylene blue totaling 60 cc was prepared. After injection, the specimens were left for 4 hours to allow medication diffusion. The dissection of specimens was performed to identify 4 areas: axillary nerve, suprascapular nerve, supraclavicular nerves, and joint capsule. On dissection, accuracy rates were determined for each area. Results All 10 cadaveric specimens were injected and dissected to completion. The dissection of the axillary nerve showed methylene blue dye surrounding the nerve in 10 of 10 (100%) specimens, the suprascapular nerve in 9 of 10 (90%), and the supraclavicular nerves in 10 of 10 (100%). Zero of 10 (0%) specimens had any dye penetrate into the glenohumeral joint or capsule. Conclusion The accuracy rates of the injection of the mixture into the shoulder specimens suggest potential to reproduce an FB to the tissues that are responsible for postoperative pain after shoulder surgery. This may represent an option when interscalene nerve block is not desired or contraindicated.