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Background and Aims A 37 year old female with high BMI presented to the emergency department with a traumatic elbow dislocation following a fall whilst intoxicated with alcohol. Initial reduction attempts under sedation were unsuccessful. Due to concerns about potential neurological complications, the patient was listed for an urgent reduction of the elbow joint in trauma theatre. In theatre a supraclavicular nerve block was performed to provide analgesia and anaesthesia allowing for successful reduction of the elbow joint.

Methods A supraclavicular block was performed under ultrasound guidance using a combination of 10ml 2% Lidocaine and 10ml 0.5% Bupivacaine with 1:200,00 adrenaline. A regional anaesthetic technique was chosen to avoid the risks of potential aspiration and difficult airway management.

Results Reduction of the elbow joint was performed successfully with excellent analgesia and muscle relaxation provided by a supraclavicular nerve block. Throughout the procedure the patient reported a positive experience with much improved analgesia and comfort.

Conclusions This case underscores the efficacy of regional anaesthetic techniques in managing patients undergoing surgery on trauma operating lists. A supraclavicular nerve block provided excellent surgical conditions to allow for successful reduction of a dislocated elbow joint, whilst also avoiding the potential risks of aspiration and difficult airway management associated with alcohol intoxication and high BMI. The use of lidocaine and bupivacaine allowed for both rapid onset and adequate duration of regional blockade, contributing towards patient satisfaction. This approach should be considered a viable option for managing similar clinical scenarios, specifically for patients in whom a general anaesthetic may carry increased risk.