Abstract

The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of fentanyl and tramadol as an adjuvant to ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Methods: This prospective, randomized double-blind study was conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology. 200 patients of either sex aged 20-60 years, belonging to ASA physical status I or II undergoing upper-arm surgery were recruited for this study. Results: Therewas no statistically significant difference among the two groups in demographic characteristics. Majority of study participants were males but there is no statistical difference among two groups. The demographic status and data before the block were comparable among two groups (P > 0.05). Mean ± standard deviation for onset of complete sensory block prolonged from group RT and to Group RF. There was statistically significant difference in onset of complete sensory block among the groups(p < 0.001). Mean ± standard deviation for onset of complete motor block prolonged from Group RT to group RF. Mean post-operative VAS Score at 3 hours was 0.43 and 1.31, at 6 hours it was 0.57 and 2.77 in both the study groups. Mean VAS score at 9 hours was 1.40 and 3.97 in Group RT and RF, at 12 hours mean VAS score of Group RT was 2.60 and that of Group RF was 2.46. Mean postoperative VAS score at 15 hours was 3.43 and 2.97 in Group RT and RF, at 18 hours mean VAS score was 1.26 in RT group and 2.89 in RF group. At 21 hours mean postoperative VAS score was 1.94 and 2.71 in both the study groups, while as at 24 hours mean VAS score was 2.14 in Group RT and 2.94 in Group RF. Conclusion: In conclusion, tramadol when used as adjuvant with local anaesthetic in peripheral nerve block provides better surgical anaesthesia and analgesia. Therefore, its use should be promoted for routine addition to local anaesthetics in peripheral nerve blocks.

Description