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Bronchospasm following supraclavicular brachial plexus block
Rohini V Bhat Pai1, Harihar V Hegde1, M C B Santosh1
1Department of Anaesthesiology, SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad, Karnataka, India.
Anesthesia, Essays and Researches
|April 18, 2015
Summary
Bronchospasm is a rare complication of supraclavicular brachial plexus block, even in elderly patients with respiratory issues. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for managing this adverse event.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Supraclavicular brachial plexus block is a common regional anesthesia technique for upper limb surgeries.
- It is often preferred over general anesthesia in elderly patients or those with respiratory compromise.
Observation:
- Bronchospasm is a rare but potential complication of brachial plexus blocks.
- While reported after the interscalene approach, it has not been previously documented following the supraclavicular approach.
Findings:
- A 70-year-old female developed bronchospasm one hour post-supraclavicular brachial plexus block for emergency debridement.
- The patient's bronchospasm responded to standard treatment, and her hospital stay was otherwise uneventful.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of bronchospasm following a supraclavicular brachial plexus block.
- Awareness is critical for prompt diagnosis and management, particularly in vulnerable patients with compromised respiratory function.
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