Intraoperative Assessment of Ultrasound Guided Continuous Facia Iliaca Block (CFIB) Versus Continuous Lumbar Plexus Block (CLPB) in Patients Undergoing Fracture Neck Femur Fixation

Abstract

Background: In the elderly and high risk patients, it is logic to prefer local anaesthesia rather than general anaesthesia. The fascia iliaca compartment block is an easy, available method for peri-operative analgesia in patients with painful conditions affecting the thigh, the hip joint and/or the femur. Lumbar plexus block is another form of deep blocks which is used to provide anesthesia and/or analgesia for the entire distribution of the lumbar plexus. Aim of Study: Intraoperative assessment of CFIB versus CLPB. Material and Methods: 40 patients with fracture neck femur were randomized intone of 2 blocks, CFIB and CLPB. Results: CFIB was significantly superior to CLPB as regards shorter time for catheter insertion (CIT) (p<0.001), earlier maximum motor block (p<0.001) and earlier peak of sensory block (p=0.008), intraoperative hemodynamic stability (p<0.001) while CLPB group showed significantly rapid onset of motor and sensory block (p<0.001, p<0.001). Conclusion: Continuous infusion fascia iliaca block gives better quality analgesia. It is an easy procedure that could be done in the emergency room. It is faster, safer and more applicable technique than continuous lumbar plexus block.