[Efficiency of secondary posterior trunk single stimulation, low volume infraclavicular plexus block for upper limb surgery].

OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficiency of a posterior secondary trunk single stimulation, low volume (30 ml 1.5% mepivacaine) infraclavicular brachial plexus block (ICB) technique.

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective study.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: One hundred consecutive patients scheduled for hand, forearm or elbow surgery were included. ICB was placed using a single stimulation technique. 30 ml 1.5% mepivacaine was injected when an evoked distal radial motor type response was elicited for 0.3-0.6 mA intensity current. Based upon both sensory and motor distribution ICB, characteristics and performance were assessed.

RESULTS: No patient required general anesthesia conversion. Success rate was 92%. 8 patients required a total amount of 10 complementary distal troncular blocks. No specific complication of ICB technique was accoutered. All patients completed full neurological recovery from ICB 24 hours after surgery.

CONCLUSION: 30 ml mepivacaine 1.5% ICB is suitable for upper limb surgery.