Comparison of two neurostimulation techniques for axillary brachial plexus blockade

This prospective, randomized, double-blind study compared twotechniques of axillary brachial plexus block using a peripheralnerve stimulator. Both groups received initial musculocutaneousnerve block followed by either a single injection on mediannerve stimulation (group 1) or a double injection divided betweenmedian and radial nerves (group 2). All 60 patients receiveda total of 30 ml of lidocaine 15 mg/ml with epinephrine5 µg/ml. Complete sensory blockade of all six peripheralnerves occurred in 53% and 97% of patients in groups 1 and 2,respectively (P<0.001), with a more rapid onset of blockadeoccurring in group 2 patients (P<0.001). Complete motor blockadewas evident in 30% and 83% of patients in groups 1 and 2, respectively(P<0.001). Br J Anaesth 2001; 86: 80–3