The hematoma block an effective alternative for fracture reduction in distal radius fractures.

Background: An alternative to general anesthesia was tested against hematoma block by a double-blind, randomized clinical trial in reduction of Colles fracture.
Method: 96 patients more than 18 years old with displaced fractures of distal radius were selected from 2007-2009 on the basis of: 1) informed consent; 2) no contraindication to any method of analgesia; 3) no associated injury. Patients were randomized into 2 equal groups. The A group received Propofol intravenously, whereas the B group received 10 ml of 2% Lidocaine Hydrochloride into the fracture hematoma. Fractures are reduced under acceptable criteria. Pain measured by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was recorded before, during, and after reduction. Time to Emergency department, to manipulation and to hospital discharge is measured. In radiographic before, after reduction and a week later the radial tilt, ulnar migration and dorsal tilt are measured. Loss of these parameters were study statistically data analysis by KW statistics.
Results: 96 patients with displaced fractures of distal radius at mean age 54.3 (19-84) years old, M/F rate 37/59, left/right hand 37/58., from 2005-2008. VAS during reduction was 0 in group A and 0.97 +/- 0.7 in group B and VAS after reduction was 2.72 +/- 0.7 in group A and 2.25 +/- 0.2 in group B. Time to reduction was 2.63 +/- 0.96 hr in A and 0.90 +/- 0.47 hr in B After a week, 21 fractures lose reduction in group A and 22 in group B.
Conclusion: Hematoma block by local anesthetic is a safe and effective alternative to intravenous general anesthesia in reduction of Colles fracture.