Aims: A study was performed to evaluate the effect of dexmedetomidine added to ropivacaine on Supraclavicular brachial Plexus block characteristics, postoperative analgesia, haemodynamics and sedation.

Methods: Sixty patients, of ASA grade Ι & ΙΙ of either sex, aged 21 to 60 years, who were undergoing various bony orthopaedic surgeries on the upper limb under supraclavicular brachial plexus block were randomly allocated in to two equal groups of 30 patients each to recieve 29 ml ropivacaine 0.75% plus 1ml saline (group R) and 29 ml ropivacaine 0.75% plus dexmedetomidine 1µg/kg body weight in 1ml saline (group RD) in supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Onset and duration of sensory blocks and motor blocks, duration of analgesia, perioperative haemodynamic parameters, VAS and sedation scores were assessed.

Results: Both groups were comparable with regard to demographic data. The onset of sensory and motor block were significantly earlier in group RD as compared to group R. Duration of motor block and analgesia were significantly longer in group RD as compared to group R. Sedation score were significantly higher in group RD. Though HR, NIBP and Respiratory rate were significantly decreased in group RD, however all patients remained haemodynamically stable.

Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine (1µg/kg) is a good adjuvant to ropivacaine (0.75%) has faster onset, early and prolonged duration of sensory and motor blockade and increased duration of analgesia, with arousable sedation in supraclavicular brachial plexus block for upper limb surgeries