Hemidiaphragmatic Paralysis Following Ultrasound-Guided Supraclavicular Versus Infraclavicular Brachial Plexus Blockade

Abstract

Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular blockade with 30 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine produced complete hemidiaphragmatic paralysis in approximately one-third of patients. The infraclavicular approach greatly reduced this risk but did not eliminate it. These data may aid in the selection of the approach to brachial plexus blockade, particularly in ambulatory patients and/or those with respiratory comorbidities.