A Randomized Controlled Trial Study on the Effect of Adding Dexmedetomidine to Bupivacaine in Supraclavicular Block Using Ultrasound Guidance

BACKGROUND: The benefits of regional anesthetic techniques are well established. Use of additives to local anesthetics can prolong these benefits. The aim of this study was to find out the effect of adding dexmedetomidine to bupivacaine for supraclavicular block. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind study, 70 ASA I & II patients of either sex undergoing elective surgeries on the upper limb were given supraclavicular block under ultrasound guidance. Group C (n=35) received 38 mL 0.25% bupivacaine + 2mL normal saline and group D received 38 mL 0.25% bupivacaine + 1 µg/kg dexmedetomidine (2mL). Patients were observed for, onset of motor and sensory block, duration of motor and sensory block, duration of analgesia, sedation score, hemodynamic changes and any adverse events. RESULTS: In group D, the onset was faster (P< 0.001), durations of sensory and motor block duration of and analgesia were prolonged as compared to group C (P < 0.0001).There was a significant drop in heart rate (HR) from the baseline in group D (P < 0.05) at 30, 60, 90 and 120 min. However, none of the patients dropped HR below 50/min. Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) remained unaffected. The patients in group D were more effectively sedated than those in group C (P < 0.05). No adverse event was reported in either group. CONCLUSION: Dexmedetomidine as adjuvant to bupivacaine in supraclavicular block resulted in faster action, prolonged motor and sensory block, prolonged analgesia with hemodynamic stability and adequate sedation.