Hematoma Block as an Adjunct to Procedural Sedation for Forearm Fracture Reduction

About This Study

The purpose of our study is to determine if the use of a hematoma block together with intravenous sedation and analgesia is an effective means of managing forearm fractures in the Emergency Department. To determine this, we have designed a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial of hematoma block versus saline for the manipulation of forearm fractures under conscious sedation with ketamine and midazolam. Our hypotheses are two-fold: First, the use of a hematoma block together with conscious sedation will allow for improved pain control. Second, the use of a hematoma block together with conscious sedation will allow us to use less sedation, therefore promoting faster recovery from sedation and more efficient patient turnover in the Emergency Department.

Conditions Studied

Interventions

• •Lidocaine
• •Saline

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

* English or Spanish speaking
* Ages 3-17
* Closed distal forearm fracture requiring reduction under sedation in the Emergency Department
* Fracture involves the distal third of the forearm

Exclusion Criteria:

* Multiple trauma victims
* Associated nerve or vascular damage
* Associated elbow or humerus injury
* Sensitivity or allergy to lidocaine
* Contraindications to procedural sedation
* Previous attempts at reduction for the same injury

Study Locations (1)