Role of positioning posterior cord on coracoid approach brachial plexus block guided by nerve stimulator

BACKGROUND Coracoid approach is efficient and safe for brachial plexus block, and is guided by nerve stimulator or ultrasound in general. Many trials have proved that ultrasonic guidance was more efficacious than nerve stimulator guidance. We hypothesized that positioning posterior cord could enhance the anesthesia effect of coracoid approach brachial plexus block (CABPB) guided by nerve stimulator. METHODS Eighty patients were randomized into 2 groups to receive CABPB with positioning posterior cord guided by nerve stimulator (group A) or CABPB guided by ultrasound (group B). Success rate, procedure time, and onset time of sensory or motor block were recorded. RESULTS Success rate was similar in 2 groups (89.7% in group A vs 87.5% in group B, P > .05). Procedure time was longer in group A (8 minutes), as compared with group B (4 minutes; P < .05). The difference of onset time of sensory and motor block was not significant between the 2 groups. The onset time of sensory and motor block for musculocutaneous nerve was significantly shorter in group A, as compared with group B (P < .05). CONCLUSION The 2 technologies are equivalent regarding success rate, safety, and onset time of sensory or motor block. Positioning posterior cord in CABPB guided by nerve stimulator is efficacious for upper extremity surgery.(URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn/listbycreater.aspx ID: ChiCTR-INR-16009091 DATE: 25/8/2016).