What is a brachial plexus block/anaesthesia?
The brachial plexus block is a form of local anesthesia. It is used to temporarily switch off the sensations of the arms and parts of the shoulder. The ability to move the anesthetized areas voluntarily is also lost for the duration of the anesthesia.
A brachial plexus block is usually performed by an anesthesiologist (anaesthetist). It is used for operations on the arms and parts of the shoulder and represents an alternative to general anesthesia. As a rule, local anesthetics have fewer risks than general anesthesia.
However, general anesthesia may still be indicated for major or particularly complicated procedures. The brachial plexus block can also be used therapeutically in cases of persistent pain in this area. Here, as a rule, a painkiller is chosen that allows the movement to continue.
In the brachial plexus block, a needle is inserted near the nerves of the brachial plexus and a local anesthetic is administered via the needle. The area where the needle is inserted can be anaesthetized with local anaesthetics beforehand. The nerves are not punctured directly, as this could damage them. The exact course of the needle can be assessed by a simultaneous ultrasound examination.
What is brachial plexus syndrome?
As brachial plexus syndrome is a combination of certain symptoms caused by increased pressure on nerves of the brachial plexus and the vessels near it (subclavian artery). It is also known as shoulder girdle compression syndrome. The increase in pressure is usually caused by a constriction.
This can be formed by a neck rib, enlarged (hypertrophied) muscles or tendons and ligaments. Two bones lying close together, such as the clavicle and the first rib, can also form a constriction. Depending on where the pressure is increased, this is called scalenus syndrome, costoclavicular syndrome or hyperabduction syndrome.
The symptoms often begin with pain or tingling in the arm. They often worsen depending on the movement. Later on, in the absence of treatment, paralysis of the arm and muscle loss may occur.
The therapy consists of avoiding the pain with painkillers. Specific movement and physiotherapy can also be helpful. In severe cases, surgery may also be considered, especially if there is a cervical rib.
