Suprascapular Nerve Block Efficacy for Shoulder Surgery

Suprascapular Nerve Block Efficacy for Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: a Randomized Clinical Trial

This study evaluates the analgesia induced by suprascapular nerve block in comparison to interscalene nerve block in arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs. The experimental and the control group will receive the suprascapular nerve block and interscalene nerve block, respectively.

Peripheral nerve blocks are widely used for postsurgical analgesia. Interscalene nerve block provides a total brachial plexus motor and sensitive blockade while the suprascapular nerve block produces only a specific peripheral blockade.

The interscalene nerve block is the most frequently used anesthesia technique and requires a longer learning curve. Complications related to this technique may be more severe and frequent in comparison to other regional anesthesia techniques.

The suprascapular nerve block yields less adverse effects, discomfort and rebound effect as this technique does not completely block the upper limb motor function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 18 and 80 years old
• Confirmed rotator cuff tear by magnetic resonance imaging

Exclusion Criteria:

• Irreparable cuff tears (retracted lesions to the glenoid rim and/or fourth grade fatty infiltration)
• Partial repair of cuff tears (immobile lesions)
• Rheumatic diseases
• Neck-related shoulder pain
• Glenohumeral instability or osteoarthritis