Hypertensive emergency as a complication of brachial plexus block. (8th March 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chakithandy, Sajith; Kelly, Paul; Barron, James
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2011
• Publication Date: 2011-03-08
• Subjects: Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr.01.2011.3754
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : The authors report a case of hypertensive emergency (defined as systolic blood pressure >180 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure >110 mm Hg with end organ damage) following brachial plexus blockade in a hypertensive lady with unstable angina. The authors describe blocking of baroreceptor reflexes by the local anaesthetic as a putative mechanism and suggest that this potentially serious complication should be considered when planning this particular anaesthetic technique.