The feasibility and efficacy of short axillary catheters for emergency upper limb surgery: a descriptive series of 120 cases.
We prospectively evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of a simple method for inserting 5.1-cm brachial plexus catheters using a fascial click technique. In 120 patients, after inserting an axillary catheter by a resident and verifying adequate position using a nerve stimulator, 0.7 mL/kg 1% mepivacaine was injected. Success of blockade (analgesia at 40 min in the 4 terminal nerves), analgesia efficacy, and resident autonomy were recorded. The primary success rate was 87%. Reinjections were performed preoperatively and perioperatively in 40% and 50% of patients, respectively. The resident completed the technique in 91% of cases. We conclude that this technique is easily performed by residents in training and is associated with frequent success for anesthesia and postoperative analgesia.
Fuzier
Régis
R
Department of Anesthesiology and Emergency Care, University Hospital Center, Purpan Hospital, Toulouse Cedex, France. fuzier.r@chu-toulouse.fr
Fourcade
Olivier
O
Fuzier
Valérie
V
Arnold
Sylvie
S
Torrie
Jane
J
Olivier
Michel
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001365:Axilla; D001917:Brachial Plexus; D002404:Catheterization; D004630:Emergencies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000628:therapy; D034941:Upper Extremity / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*