Comparison of Ultrasound-guided Hematoma Block and "Blind" Hematoma Block for Analgesia in Distal Radius Fractures
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Summary
The purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy of ultrasound guided hematoma block versus traditional "blind" hematoma block for analgesia in distal radius fracture reduction.
Description
Hematoma blocks are safe and effective in providing analgesia for fracture reduction1-4. They involve injecting lidocaine directly into the fracture line for analgesia. The physician aspirates blood prior to injection to confirm placement in the hematoma created by the fracture. However, the procedure can be technically difficult if the fracture line is difficult to palpate, for example, due to significant swelling or body habitus. Ultrasound has been shown to improve efficacy in other analgesic procedures such as peripheral nerve blocks5 and also in identifying fracture lines6. There have bee…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–100 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Adult patient ≥ 18 years old presenting to the emergency department with complaint of distal radius fracture Exclusion Criteria: * High acuity/distress per the Attending ED physician * Altered mental status or intoxication * Aphasia, mental retardation, dementia, or insurmountable communication barrier * Acute psychiatric illness
Interventions
- Otherultrasound guide
Patients randomized to this arm will have the hematoma block of the distal radial fracture with the guidance of a bedside ultrasound
Location
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenterBoston, Massachusetts