Comparative Evaluation of Dexmedetomedine versus Clonidine as an Adjuvant in Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block

Background: Supraclavicular block is considered to be the ideal block for upper extremity surgeries as it provides ideal operative conditions by complete muscle relaxation and stable infra operative hemodynamics. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Clonidine and Dexmedetomedine as an adjuvant to Ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Material and Methods: Ninety patients were divided randomly into 3 groups of 30 each. Group CL: Patients received injection Ropivacaine 0.5% (30 ml) + normal saline (1 ml), Group CD: Patients received injection Ropivacaine 0.5% (30 ml) + injection Clonidine (150 mu g), Group DX: Patients received injection Ropivacaine 0.5% (30 ml) + injection Dexmedetomidine (100 mu g). Onset of sensory and motor block, duration of analgesia and motor block, complications and side effects of the study drugs were compared among the three groups. Results: The onset of sensory and motor block was earliest in Group DX, followed by Group CD, followed by Group CL. Complete sensory and motor block were earliest in Group DX, followed by Group CD, followed by Group CL. Similarly duration of sensory and motor block was maximum in Group DX, followed by Group CD, followed by Group CL (p<0.05). Conclusion: Dexmedetomedine and Clonidine when added to Ropivacaine for supraclavicular brachial plexus block prolong the duration of analgesia. But Dexmedetomedine is a better adjuvant as compared to Clonidine.