Thermographic assessment of stellate ganglion block effectiveness during cardiosurgical procedures. 

Rogowski J, Mroziński P, Jagielak D, Lango R, Narkiewicz M, Wujtewicz M. Source Department of Cardiosurgery, Institute of Cardiology, Medical University, ul. Debinki 7, Gdańsk. janrog@amg.gda.pl

Abstract
The study present thermographic assessment of the effectiveness of temporary stellate blockade performed during cardiosurgical procedures. The assumption behind this method was the increase in the temperature of upper extremity on the side of blockade, due to the broadening of arterial bed.

MATERIAL AND METHOD: The study was conducted on a group of 30 patients (21 men and 9 women) operated due to coronary disease involving three vessels. Mean age of the patients was 53 years. After introduction of anaesthesia blockade were performed with 2 ml 2% lignocainum and 8 ml 0.5% bupivacaine solution using peratracheal approach. Blockade effectiveness was assessed on the basis of images obtained in thermovisual camera, comparing the temperatures of upper extremity before and within 15 minutes after performing the blockade. Free blood outflow from radial artery, its diameter and length were also evaluated. The results obtained were subject to statistical analysis.

RESULTS: Twenty-three patients (76.6%) displayed the increase in the temperature of upper extremity by 1-3 degrees C. Free blood outflow from radial artery was greater in this group than in the remaining patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Thermography is a useful method for the assessment of stellate blockade effectiveness. Effective blockade results in the increased blood flow in radial artery.