Application of Peripheral Nerve Stimulator During Brachial Plexus Block

Objective:To compare the efficacy of brachial plexus block guided by peripheral nerve stimulator with that guided by paresthesia technique. Methods:60 ASA class Ⅰ or Ⅱ patiens scheduled for upper extremity operation were randomly devided into two groups,30 cases each,in group A peripheral nerve stimulator was used to locate the brachial plexus and in group B block was performed in the traditional way based on paresthesia. 25ml 1.6% lidocaine was administered in both groups. The identification time for the target nerves and the onset time were recorded. The anesthetic effect was assessed. Results:The identification time in group A was 4.2±2.6min,which was significantly shorter than that in group B 10.1±4.7min(p0.01). The onset time in group A was 10.6±2.2min,which was significantly faster than that in group B 13.2±3.4min(p0.05). The effective rate of anesthetic effect in group A was 93.3%,which was significantly greater than that in group B 80%( p0.05).Conclusion:Brachial plexus block guided by peripheral nerve stimulator may shorten the identification time ,onset time and provide excellent block.