Actively Recruiting
Sensorimotor Block Dynamics and Hemidiaphragmatic Palsy: A Randomized Superiority Trial Comparing Selective Trunk Block and Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block
Led by Chinese University of Hong Kong · Updated on 2025-04-13
50
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
4 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are comparing two types of ultrasound-guided nerve blocks used for anesthesia during upper extremity surgeries, which include operations from the shoulder to the hand. The study aims to evaluate whether the Selective Trunk Block (SeTB), which targets the three trunks of the brachial plexus with smaller doses of local anesthetic, provides better anesthesia coverage and fewer complications like hemidiaphragmatic palsy compared to the commonly used supraclavicular brachial plexus block (BPB). This is important because the supraclavicular BPB may not effectively anesthetize all nerve areas and can require larger anesthetic volumes that carry risks for some patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the SeTB or the supraclavicular BPB. The SeTB involves two skin punctures with three separate injections targeting each trunk of the brachial plexus, using specific mixtures and volumes of local anesthetics. The supraclavicular BPB is performed with a single ultrasound view and injections near the brachial plexus clusters using similar anesthetic mixtures but in different amounts and locations. Both procedures are done with the patient lying on their back with the arm and neck positioned appropriately. Throughout the study, participants will be monitored closely for sensory and motor nerve blockade, the effect on diaphragm function, and any complications during and after the nerve block up to 45 minutes. Researchers will measure readiness for surgery by checking changes in sensation and movement, assess any breathing changes related to nerve involvement, and record secondary outcomes such as block performance time, discomfort, and need for additional pain relief during surgery. The study includes adults aged 18 to 75 undergoing upper arm surgeries and follows a detailed protocol to compare the two anesthesia techniques.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Sensorimotor Block Dynamics and Hemidiaphragmatic Palsy: Selective Trunk Block vs Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- ASA 1-3 patients
- Undergoing elective or emergency upper extremity surgery involving anywhere from the proximal humerus to distal hand or surgery involving any combination of these regions
- Age between 18 and 75 years
- Both males and females
You will not qualify if you...
- Patient refusal
- Pregnancy
- Skin infection at the site of block placement
- History of allergy to local anaesthetic drugs
- Bleeding tendency or with evidence of coagulopathy
- Pre-existing respiratory disease
- Neurological deficit or neuromuscular disease
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
Duration - Single procedure on the day of surgery
Participants receive either a Selective Trunk Block (SeTB) or Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block (SC BPB) as anesthesia for upper extremity surgery.
1 procedure visit (in-person)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Department of Anaesthesia & Intensive Care, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories,
Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
H
Hoi Ling Wong, RN, BN
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
DOUBLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
Similar Trials
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions? Get in touch with our team for quick support
Not the Right Trial for You?
Explore thousands of other clinical trials that might be a better match.
Sign up to get personalized trial recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Already have an account? Log in here