Effect of Addition of Dexamethasone to Ropivacaine in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block: A Prospective, Randomised, Double - Blind Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Addition of adjuvant has been widely used to prolong the duration of peripheral nerve block. We evaluated the effect of adding dexamethasone to ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block. METHODS: Sixty patients of age group 18-60 years, scheduled for various elective upper limb surgeries under supraclavicular brachial block were divided into 2 groups in a randomized, double-blinded fashion. In group R (n=30), 30ml of 0.5% ropivacaine +1.5ml saline and in group D (n=30), 30ml of 0.5% ropivacaine +1.5ml dexamethasone (6mg) were given. The time of onset of motor and sensory blockade, duration of analgesia and pain scores were recorded. RESULTS: Demographic data and surgical characteristics were similar in both groups. The sensory and motor block onset time was earlier in group D as compared to group R (P<0.001). Duration of analgesia was longer in group D than in group R (P<0.001). Pain score in the two groups-group R had moderate to extreme pain while the group D had no pain to moderate pain in the first 24 hours postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Addition of dexamethasone to 0.5% ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block speeds the onset and prolongs the duration of sensory and motor blockade.