A Novel Application of Ultrasound-Guided Interscalene Anesthesia for Proximal Humeral Fractures

Abstract

Background: Proximal humeral fractures are commonly encountered in the emergency department (ED). These injuries are often associated with significant pain, with patients often receiving multiple doses of opiate medications while awaiting definitive management. The interscalene nerve block has been efficacious as perioperative analgesia for patients undergoing operative shoulder repair. The utilization of the interscalene nerve block in the ED for proximal humeral fractures is largely unexplored.

Discussion: We report the use of an ultrasound-guided interscalene nerve block in the ED for a patient presenting with significant pain from a proximal humerus fracture. The procedure provided excellent regional anesthesia with no additional need for intravenous or oral opiates during the rest of her ED course. With the significant risks associated with pain medication, particularly opiates, regional anesthesia may be an excellent option for the appropriate patient in the ED.

Conclusions: As documented in this report, the ultrasound-guided interscalene block, in particular, may be utilized as a means to provide adequate pain control for patients with proximal humerus fractures in the ED.

Keywords: nerve block; regional analgesia; ultrasound; ultrasound-guided procedure.