Ultrasound-Guided Stellate Ganglion Block With Preserved Motor Function for Upper Extremity Surgery
David H Cho1, Jichang Li1, Andrui Nazarian1
1Anesthesiology, Harbor University of California Los Angeles Medical Center, Torrance, USA.
Cureus
|November 12, 2021
Summary
Ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion blockade (SGB) effectively managed acute perioperative pain during upper extremity surgery. This approach reduced pain scores and medication needs while preserving intraoperative motor function.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pain Management
- Surgical Procedures
Background:
- Stellate ganglion blockade (SGB) is a recognized treatment for chronic pain.
- Standard anesthetic techniques for upper extremity surgery often preclude intraoperative motor function assessment.
Observation:
- A case report details an ultrasound-guided SGB for acute perioperative pain in a patient undergoing hand surgery.
- The patient had no prior history of chronic pain, opioid use, or neuropathy (ASA class 1).
Findings:
- Ultrasound-guided SGB provided effective analgesia during the procedure.
- The technique allowed for intraoperative motor function assessment, crucial for surgical repair.
- Postoperative pain scores and medication requirements were reduced.
Implications:
- Ultrasound-guided SGB presents a viable alternative for acute perioperative pain management in upper extremity surgery.
- This method may enhance surgical outcomes by enabling intraoperative motor function monitoring.
- It offers potential benefits in reducing postoperative pain and opioid consumption.
