Abstract

Background and Objectives: The use of ultrasound has gained popularity in the field of regional anaesthesia for upper limb surgical procedure, as it provides a direct visualization of the anatomic structures and allows a dynamic vision of needle movement and local anaesthetic spread. In the present study, we chose Buprenorphine as an adjuvant to Ropivacaine for ultrasound guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block based on hypothesis that the duration of action after single injection is limited when local anaesthetic alone is used and to prolong its effect, wide range of additives have been used in combination with local anesthetics to promote analgesia. Methodology: After obtaining ethical committee clearance, 60 patients of either sex in the age group of 25 to 60 years, with ASA status I and II, undergoing elective upper limb surgeries under ultrasound guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block, at Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences, B.G. Nagara, Mandya, were randomly divided into two groups of 30 each. Group RP received Ropivacaine 0.75% 19 ml + Normal saline 1 ml (placebo). Group RB received Ropivacaine 0.75% 19 ml + Buprenorphine 75mcg (1ml). The time of onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade, duration of analgesia, occurrence of haemodynamic instability and adverse events were noted and the results were statistically analyzed, considering a P value of < 0.05 to be statistically significant.

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