Korean J Pain.  2015 Oct;28(4):287-289. 10.3344/kjp.2015.28.4.287.

Ultrasound-guided Continuous Axillary Brachial Plexus Block Using a Nerve Stimulating Catheter: EpiStim(R) Catheter

• Choi SS
• Lee MK
• Kim JE
• Kim SH
• Yeo GE

• KMID: 2151673
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3344/kjp.2015.28.4.287

Abstract

Brachial plexus block (BPB) under ultrasound guidance has come to be widely used. However, nerve injury has been reported following ultrasound-guided BPB. We hypothesized that BPB under ultrasound guidance in conjunction with real-time electrical nerve stimulation would help us prevent nerve injury and do more successful procedure. Here, we report the successful induction and maintenance of ultrasound-guided BPB and the achievement of good peri- and postoperative pain control using a conductive catheter, the EpiStim(R).

Keyword

Brachial plexus blocks; Catheters; Pain management; Peripheral nerve; Radial nerve; Ultrasonography

MeSH Terms

Brachial Plexus*
Catheters*
Pain Management
Pain, Postoperative
Peripheral Nerves
Radial Nerve
Ultrasonography

Figure

• 

  Fig. 1 Ultrasound scan of axilla showing the axillary artery (AA). Three nerves are involved in the innervation of the hands: the median (M), ulnar (U), and radial (R) nerves. The needle trajectory and the local anesthetic around the radial nerve. White arrow: EpiStim® catheter tip.

• 

  Fig. 2 The EpiStim® catheter and nerve stimulator. The guidewire within the catheter can be connected to the nerve stimulator through a connecting catheter.

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