Brachial plexus block using a nerve stimulator and a conventional needle

A technique for blocking the brachial plexus using a electrostimulator and conventional, non-special plastic cannula with an obtulator consist of conductive metal is described. This cannula is cheaper and more conventional than special plastic-coated needle. Brachial plexus block is useful anesthesia for surgical treatment of fractures, dislocations, skin and muscle injuries of the forearm and hand. However, the blockade does not seem to be completely reliable because of the anatomical variations among individuals and the consequent difficulty in locating of the brachial plexus. Therefore the method using an electrostimulator and a special plastic-coated needle for the brachial plexus block was reported in 1962 by Greenblatt. Employing a conventional plastic cannula for intravenous use instead of a special plastic-coated needle reported by Greenblatt. We could attain nerve block completely reliably, safely and easily.