Coracoid versus lateral sagittal infraclavicular block

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Regional Anesthesia
• Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Regional anesthesia is crucial for upper limb surgery.
• Coracoid block (CB) and lateral sagittal infraclavicular block (LSIB) are regional anesthesia techniques.
• Comparing their efficacy and safety is important for clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the block performance time and success rates of CB and LSIB.
• To evaluate the intensity and onset of sensory block for both techniques.
• To assess the safety profile, including complications like vascular puncture.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 100 adult patients undergoing upper limb surgery.
• Random allocation to either CB or LSIB group.
• Administration of a standardized local anesthetic mixture and assessment of sensory block at 10-minute intervals for 40 minutes.

Main Results:

• Block performance time was similar between CB (5.2±1.9 min) and LSIB (5.5±1.4 min).
• Block success rates were comparable (CB: 86%, LSIB: 92%).
• LSIB showed significantly more intense sensory block for ulnar and radial nerves at specific time points; four vascular punctures occurred in the LSIB group.

Conclusions:

• Both CB and LSIB are effective regional anesthesia techniques for upper limb surgery.
• The techniques exhibit similar block performance times.
• LSIB may offer more intense sensory blockade but warrants careful consideration due to a higher rate of vascular punctures.