title: [Ultrasound-guided interscalene block in a patient with supraclavicular anatomical abnormalities due to radiotherapy and surgery].
abstract: Regional blocks can be difficult in surgical patients with certain superficial anatomical abnormalities. Such blocks may be possible, however, under ultrasound guidance. We report a case in which a man with a fractured right humerus required an ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block. Secondary to radiotherapy, the patient had right cervical and facial abnormalities that had altered the location of external anatomical landmarks. We describe the approach used to insert the catheter and the exploration of the region by ultrasound. Nerve stimulation was not used to avoid painful contractions. Analgesia was excellent during surgery and over the following 24 hours.
authors.affiliation: Servicio de Anestesiología, Reanimación y Tratamiento del Dolor, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia.
authors.forename: C L
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Errando
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Muñoz-Devesa
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Soldado
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001917:Brachial Plexus; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009333:Neck; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000379:methods*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D018084:Ultrasonography, Interventional