USMLE Prep - Medical Reference Library

Regional Anesthesia for Hip Fracture — Fascia Iliaca/Capsular Blocks

System: Anesthesiology • Reviewed: Aug 31, 2025 • Step 1Step 2Step 3

Synopsis:

Fascia iliaca and pericapsular nerve group (PENG) blocks provide superior analgesia for hip fracture, facilitating positioning and reducing opioids. Use ultrasound guidance and adequate volumes.

Key Points

  • Stabilize ABCs; begin targeted evaluation without delaying life-saving therapy.
  • Use system-specific risk tools to guide testing and disposition.
  • Order high-yield tests first; escalate imaging when indicated.
  • Start evidence-based initial therapy and reassess frequently.

Algorithm

  1. Primary survey and vitals; IV access and monitors.
  2. Focused history/physical; identify red flags and likely etiologies.
  3. Order system-appropriate labs and imaging (see Investigations).
  4. Initiate guideline-based empiric therapy (see Pharmacology).
  5. Reassess response; arrange consultation and definitive management.

Clinical Synopsis & Reasoning

For Regional Anesthesia For Hip Fracture Fascia Iliaca Capsular Blocks, frame the differential by acuity and pathophysiology, then align diagnostics to the leading hypotheses. Prioritize stabilization while obtaining high‑yield studies such as CBC (Baseline hematology), BMP (Electrolytes/renal). Incorporate bedside imaging and targeted labs to define severity and identify complications; synthesize results with clinical trajectory to refine the working diagnosis and disposition needs.


Treatment Strategy & Disposition

Initiate disease‑directed therapy alongside supportive care, titrating to objective response. Pharmacologic options commonly include Analgesia/Antipyretics. Use validated frameworks (e.g., Technique & Volumes) to guide escalation and site of care. Address precipitating factors, de‑escalate empiric therapies with data, and arrange follow‑up for monitoring and risk‑factor modification; admit patients with instability, high risk of deterioration, or needs for close monitoring.


Management Notes

Pair with multimodal analgesia and delirium prevention bundles. Coordinate with ED/ortho for early block pathways.


Epidemiology / Risk Factors

  • Risk factors vary by condition and patient profile

Investigations

TestRole / RationaleTypical FindingsNotes
CBCBaseline hematologyAbnormal counts
BMPElectrolytes/renalDerangements

Technique & Volumes

BlockTypical Volume
Fascia iliaca30–40 mL dilute local anesthetic
PENG15–20 mL
AdjunctsConsider epinephrine 1:200k, per policy
AnticoagulationFollow latest ASRA timing
SafetyLAST kit available

Pharmacology

MedicationMechanismOnsetRole in TherapyLimitations
Regional nerve block (ropivacaine)Local anestheticMinutesPain control pre-opLocal anesthetic toxicity
Acetaminophen ± low-dose opioidAnalgesiaHoursMultimodal pain controlSedation/resp depression
Enoxaparin (LMWH)Factor Xa inhibitionHoursVTE prophylaxisBleeding; renal dosing

Prognosis / Complications

  • Prognosis depends on severity, comorbidities, and timeliness of care

Patient Education / Counseling

  • Explain red flags and when to seek emergent care.
  • Reinforce medication adherence and follow-up plan.

References

  1. Hip Fracture Blocks — Link