Postoperative Satisfaction in Patients Undergoing Fracture Neck Femur Fixation After Continuous Facia Iliaca Block (CFIB) Versus Continuous Lumbar Plexus Block (CLPB)

Abstract

Background: It is thought that both CFIB and CLPB can decrease the length of hospital stay, morbidity and help early ambulation in patients with fracture neck of femur. Aim of the Study:To compare the postoperative analgesic efficacy and opioid spare effect of continuous ultrasoundguided lumbar plexus block and fascia iliaca compartment block in patients undergoing surgery for fractured neck of femur.Material and Methods: 40 patients with fracture neck femur were randomized intone of 2 blocks, CFIB and CLPB.Results: CFIB was superior to CLPB in total consumed dose of morphine, sensory and motor block for 48 hours postoperatively (p=0.006), hemodynamic stability (p<0.001), incidence of side effects (p=0.04) and patient satisfaction (p=0.06). Conclusion:Single injection lumbar plexus block provides postoperative analgesia for up to 18 hours, with avoidance of troubles of continuous infusion, with lower VAS scores and good patient satisfaction. However, it is considered a difficult technique with higher rate of complications and failure. On the other hand, Continuous infusion fascia iliaca block gives better quality analgesia, for up to 48 hours, and high patient satisfaction.