Clonidine as adjuvant to 0.75% ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block for post operative analgesia: A single blind randomized controlled trial

Aims & Objective : The present study was aimed to evaluate the effects of clonidine added to 0.75% Ropivacaine on the onset of sensory and motor blockade and duration of analgesia and note the incidence of adverse effects if any. Material & Method: Patients were randomly allocated into two groups. After written informed consent, in Group I supraclavicular brachial plexus block was performed with 40 ml of 0.75% Ropivacaine + 1 ml of normal saline and in Group II patients received the same block with 40 ml of 0.75% Ropivacaine + 2 mcg/kg clonidine. Onset of sensory and motor blockade was recorded. Motor block was evaluated by quantification of muscle force according to a rating scale from 6 (normal muscle force) to 0 (complete paralyses). Sensory block was evaluated by response to pin prick to the innervated areas. Finally duration of analgesia was noted. Result: There was no intergroup difference b=in onset of sensory and motor block. The mean duration of analgesia was 554 81.7 min in Group I and 812 109.6 min in Group II. Conclusion: We conclude that addition of clonidine to 0.75% Ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block does not alter the onset of block but prolongs the duration of analgesia.