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Review
. 2014 Jul;27(3):210-8.
doi: 10.3344/kjp.2014.27.3.210. Epub 2014 Jun 30.

Brachial plexus injury as a complication after nerve block or vessel puncture

Hyun Jung Kim  1 , Sang Hyun Park  1 , Hye Young Shin  2 , Yun Suk Choi  1
Affiliations
Review

Brachial plexus injury as a complication after nerve block or vessel puncture

Hyun Jung Kim et al. Korean J Pain. 2014 Jul.

Abstract

Brachial plexus injury is a potential complication of a brachial plexus block or vessel puncture. It results from direct needle trauma, neurotoxicity of injection agents and hematoma formation. The neurological presentation may range from minor transient pain to severe sensory disturbance or motor loss with poor recovery. The management includes conservative treatment and surgical exploration. Especially if a hematoma forms, it should be removed promptly. Comprehensive knowledge of anatomy and adept skills are crucial to avoid nerve injuries. Whenever possible, the patient should not be heavily sedated and should be encouraged to immediately inform the doctor of any experience of numbness/paresthesia during the nerve block or vessel puncture.

Keywords: brachial plexus; brachial plexus neuropathies; nerve block; subclavian vein.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Flowchart for the treatment of brachial plexus injury caused by a nerve block or vessel puncture.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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