Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background: The supraclavicular block of the brachial plexus is a useful alternative to general anesthesia for upper limb surgeries as they provide reliable and ideal operating conditions by maintaining stable hemodynamics, superior analgesia, and muscle relaxation. Aim of the study: To evaluate efficacy of Clonidine as an adjuvant to ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block for surgeries on upper limb. Materials and Methods: A prospective, randomised, double-blinded study was carried out on 80 patients of either sex, aged 18–60 years undergoing various surgeries on the upper extremities under supraclavicular brachial plexus block and divided in two groups . Group A received 30ml 0.375% ropivacaine and 1ml saline while group B received 0.375% ropivacaine 30 ml with clonidine 150 µg (1 ml) for the block. Demographic data of patients, mean onset of sensory and motor block, mean duration of sensory and motor block and mean time for rescue analgesic was seen. Chi-square test and Student’s t-test were used for statistical analysis. A p-value of ≤0.05 was defined to be statistical significant. Results: Demographic data of all participants was comparable. The mean onset of sensory and motor block in Group A was significantly longer than Group B. The mean duration of sensory and motor block was significantly longer in Group B. The mean time for first rescue analgesic requirement was also more in Group B patient. Conclusion: Clonidine as an adjuvant to local anesthetic in supraclavicular brachial plexus block provided rapid onset of block and better duration of analgesia without significant side effects in our study. Thus, Clonidine is a good adjuvant to local anesthetic agent for brachial plexus block via supraclavicular approach for various upper limb surgeries. Keywords: Supraclavicular brachial plexus block, Ropivacaine ,Clonidine, Postoperative Analgesia