[Total spinal paralysis as complication of brachial plexus block]

Local anesthesia of the brachial plexus by interscalenic approach was a cause of total spinal blockade due to the administration of a local anesthetic into subarachnoid space. To prevent this it is necessary to administer a test dose of a local anesthetic with pre-aspiration of the liquor with a syringe. Intensive care procedures should be aimed at maintenance of adequate hemodynamics and gas exchange and to liquidation of circulating blood volume deficiency.