The application of ultrasound, atypical muscle fibers around the roots of the interscalene brachial plexus, and effects on the interscalene nerve block

Authors

Ashraf Moustafa, Menoufia University
Heba Aboheeba, Menoufia UniversityFollow
Mamdouh S. Lotfy, Menoufia University
Thomas Grau, Menoufia University

Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objectives The purpose of this study was to estimate the ability of ultrasound (US) to identify the presence of atypical muscle fibers around the roots of the interscalene brachial plexus and their relevance to the performance of continuous interscalene nerve block. Background Ultrasonography is a very effective technique for detecting the altered anatomy within the interscalene area and it helps to avoid complications like intraneural and intravascular injections. Methods This study included 215 patients who received a US-guided interscalene brachial plexus catheter and underwent general anesthesia for shoulder surgery. All patients were examined using US for detection of atypical muscle fibers around the roots of the interscalene brachial plexus and for evaluating pain on the Numerical Rating Scale in the postoperative days. Results The presence of muscle bridges around the roots of the interscalene brachial plexus did not show any statistically significant differences in Numerical Rating Scale pain scores at rest and during movement on the second and third postoperative days. Conclusion US is a very effective technique for detecting the altered anatomy and increases the efficacy of the interscalene nerve block.

Recommended Citation

Moustafa, Ashraf; Aboheeba, Heba; Lotfy, Mamdouh S.; and Grau, Thomas (2017) "The application of ultrasound, atypical muscle fibers around the roots of the interscalene brachial plexus, and effects on the interscalene nerve block," Menoufia Medical Journal: Vol. 30: Iss. 2, Article 35.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/1110-2098.215444