Continuous fascia iliaca compartment block versus continuous epidural block for postoperative pain relief for patients undergoing lower limb above knee orthopaedic surgery-A prospective, randomized, comparative, single blind observational study.

DR. RAJASREE BISWAS; DR. SABYASACHI NANDY

Volume : VIII, Issue : VII, July - 2019

Continuous fascia iliaca compartment block versus continuous epidural block for postoperative pain relief for patients undergoing lower limb above knee orthopaedic surgery-A prospective, randomized, comparative, single blind observational study.

Dr. Rajasree Biswas, Dr. Sabyasachi Nandy

Abstract :

Background: The objective was to compare the efficacy of continuous epidural analgesia(CEA) with continuous fascia iliaca compartment block(CFIB) for postoperative pain management in patients undergoing lower limb above knee orthopaedic surgery. Methods: Eighty patients of ASA physical status I and II, aged between 18–65 years undergoing lower limb orthopaedic surgery above knee,were randomly allocated to either group E or group F. Group E received combined spinal–epidural anaesthesia plus epidural analgesia. Group F received spinal anaesthesia plus fascia iliaca compartment block. Patients were assessed for postoperative pain, hemodynamic changes, motor function and overall patient satisfaction for 24 hours postoperatively. Use of rescue analgesia (intravenous tramadol )and the adverse events were also recorded. Results: Demographic variables, post operative pain and tramadol consumption, residual motor blockade and patient satisfaction were similar in both the groups. No significant adverse effect occurred in either group. Conclusion: Continuous fascia iliaca compartment block is an effective and safe alternative to continuous epidural block in lower limb above knee orthopaedic surgery as it is easier to administer with fewer side effects and does not require nerve stimulator or paresthesia.