Continuous axillary brachial plexus blockade for reflex sympathetic dystrophy

Abstract

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy is one of the commoner neurogenic pain syndromes; the typical onset follows peripheral trauma and is characterised by diffuse burning pain and hyperalgesia, accompanied by variable vasomotor and dystrophic changes. Successful treatment of an established reflex sympathetic dystrophy may be difficult. A case is reported describing the successful use of a series of continuous axillary brachial plexus blocks for the treatment of this syndrome.