Nerve injury complicating ultrasound/electrostimulation-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block

Abstract

Background and objectives: Neurologic complications after peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) are relatively uncommon. It has been postulated that real-time, needle-nerve visualization during ultrasound guided PNBs might further reduce the risk of neurologic or vascular complications.

Case report: In this report, we describe the occurrence of a severe brachial plexus injury after combined ultrasound and nerve stimulator-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block.

Conclusions: Ultrasound guidance should not preclude development of additional monitoring and protocols to decrease the risk of complications with PNBs.