Authors |
Candal-Couto
JJ. McVie JL. Haslam N. Innes AR. Rushmer J.
|
Institution |
Department of Orthopaedics, Wansbeck General Hospital, Ashington,
Northumbria NE63 9JJ, UK.
|
Title |
Pre-operative analgesia for patients with femoral neck fractures using
a modified fascia iliaca block technique.
|
Source |
Injury. 36(4):505-10, 2005 Apr.
|
Local Messages |
Held at BMA Library
|
Abstract |
Adequate pre-operative analgesia for elderly patients with femoral
neck fractures is difficult to assess and is often an overseen aspect of
their care. We aimed to assess the efficacy of fascia iliaca blocks
inserted via plexus blockade catheters in the pre-operative period. Our
simple technique allowed the block to be administered safely without the
need for a nerve stimulator. We assessed the effectiveness of the block
with a novel objective sitting score and by assessing the degree of
passive hip flexion that could be achieved comfortably. Visual analogue
scores were also used. We studied 30 consecutive patients, regardless of
their mental state. One hour following the block, there was a significant
improvement in the sitting scores as well as the passive hip flexion (mean
increase 44 degrees ). Visual analogue scores also score improved
significantly from 7.2 to 4.6 (S.D. 2.4) in the 18 patients without
cognitive impairment. We conclude that fascia iliaca blocks can provide
significant benefit in the pre-operative period and allow patients to sit
up more comfortably while they await surgery.
|
Publication Type |
Journal Article. |