ABSTRACT

In the present study which we performed four different supraclavicular block techniques on the same cadaver, we aimed to inverstigate the required needle depth to reach plexus brachialis and its correlation with demographic data.

The study was performed on ten cadavers. After the dissection was completed, the skin of the cadavers was restored in its original position and then they were re-positioned according to the technique evaluated. Four different supraclavicular block techniques (Vongvises, Dalens, Plumb-Bob and inter-SCM) were applied. The needle depth required to reach plexus brachialis was measured and the demographic data were recorded.

The needle depth was minimum in the Dalens technique and maximum in the inter-SCM technique. There was no correlation between the needle depth and demographic data in Plumb-bob technique. There was a significant correlation between the needle depth and the height of the cadavers in all the other techniques. A significant correlation between the needle depth and the weight of the cadaver was observed only in the inter-SCM technique.

The needle depth was minimum in the Dalens technique and maximum in the inter-SCM technique. We observed that when Dalen’s technique is used the needle may pass through the first intercostal space and lead to pneumothorax if pushed deeper in adults. When compared to the other techniques, moving the insertion point approximately 1 cm caudal and maintaining the anteroposterior needle direction in Vongvises technique would result in a successful brachial plexus block.

Keywords: Supraclavicular block, needle depth