Year: 2025 | Month: October-December | Volume: 10 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 189-194
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijshr.20250427
Ultrasound-Guided Retroclavicular approach to Infraclavicular Block: Reducing Complications and Improving Needle Visibility – A Case Series
C.S. Singh1, Neha Mishra2, Rashmi Srivastava3, Mukesh Kumar4
1Department of Anaesthesiology, GSVM Medical College Swaroop Nagar, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh - 208002
2Department of Anaesthesiology, GSVM Medical College Swaroop Nagar, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh - 208002
3Department of Anaesthesiology, GSVM Medical College Swaroop Nagar, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh - 208002
4Department of Anaesthesiology, GSVM Medical College Swaroop Nagar, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh - 208002
Corresponding Author: Dr. Neha Mishra
ABSTRACT
Background: Ultrasound-guided Retroclavicular Infraclavicular block (RCB) offers improved needle visualization and may enhance safety compared to traditional approaches.
Methods: This case series included patients undergoing upper limb orthopedic surgeries under ultrasound-guided RCB. Block onset, duration, and adequacy of anesthesia were assessed. Patients were monitored for 24 hours for analgesic requirements, complications, and satisfaction. Rescue analgesia (tramadol 50 mg IV) was given for NRS > 4.
Results: All patients achieved effective surgical anesthesia with high satisfaction scores. Sensory and motor blocks had rapid onset and provided excellent intraoperative conditions. Needle visibility was consistently good, leading to shorter performance times and fewer needle passes. No major complications, such as vascular puncture, local anesthetic toxicity, or pneumothorax, occurred. Minor transient paraesthesia resolved without intervention.
Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided RCB is a safe, effective, and patient-friendly technique for upper limb surgeries, combining high success with excellent visualization and low complication rates
Keywords: Ultrasound-guided block, Retroclavicular approach, Infraclavicular brachial plexus block, Upper limb surgery, regional anaesthesia, Needle visibility