Objective:
The difference between bupivacaine and levobupivacaine would potentially be created during regional block techniques at low concentrations. In this study we aimed to compare the interscalene brachial block (ISB) properties of 0.25 % bupivacaine and levobupivacaine by comparing the dermatomal sensorial and motor block onset time and durations.
Material and Methods:
ASA I-III, 64 patients who will receive ISB application because of shoulder surgery were included in this prospective double-blind study. Patients were randomly assigned to receive ISB with either 40 mL 0.25 % bupivacaine (Group B, n=32) or 0.25 % levobupivacaine (Group L, n=32). Sensory block was assessed with pinprick test applied on C4 to T1 dermatomes and motor function was assessed by Bromage scale. The time of onset of sensory and motor blocks, time to recovery from sensorial and motor blocks, and pain scores were recorded.
Results:
Patient characteristics were similar between groups. The mean onset time of sensory block in all dermatomes was significantly faster in Group L (7.13±4.57 min in Group B and 4.03±2.37 min in Group L) (p=0.002). The time to onset of sensory and motor block in all dermatomes, duration of sensory and motor blocks were comparable between groups.
Conclusion:
Application of ISB with 40 mL 0.25 % concentration of levobupivacaine provides clinical advantage over bupivacaine with shorter time to onset of sensorial blockade in each dermatome.
Keywords: Interscalene brachial plexus block, bupivacaine, levobupivacaine