Abstract
The use of the upright position of the patient, and a vertical incision for exposure of the brachial plexus, has been attended by no complications or serious hazards. The aid of skilled anaesthetists is acknowledged. The structures are visible and accessible; the operative field is steady; bleeding is controlled easily; and dissection is facilitated. By this technique it has been possible to explore a larger field from above, and division of the clavicle has seldom been necessary. Finally, and of importance, the operative area at shoulder level enables the surgeon to continue tedious dissection for some hours comfortably, and to escape postoperative postural complications in his own back.