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Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial using lidocaine patch 5% in traumatic rib fractures
Nichole K Ingalls1, Zachary A Horton, Matthew Bettendorf
1Michigan State University/Grand Rapids Medical Education and Research Center, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.
Journal of the American College of Surgeons
|February 2, 2010
Summary
The lidocaine patch 5% did not significantly reduce narcotic use or improve pain control in patients with traumatic rib fractures. This study found no benefit for the lidocaine patch in managing pain for these injuries.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Pain Management
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- The lidocaine patch 5% is approved for postherpetic neuralgia.
- Anecdotal evidence suggested potential for reducing narcotic use in traumatic rib fractures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the lidocaine patch 5% in reducing narcotic usage and improving pain control in patients with traumatic rib fractures.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized trial comparing lidocaine patch 5% to placebo in 58 trauma patients with rib fractures.
- Primary outcome was total narcotic use; secondary outcomes included pain scores, medication use, and pulmonary complications.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed between the lidocaine patch and placebo groups in total IV or oral narcotic usage.
- Pain scores, length of stay, and rates of pulmonary complications were also similar between groups.
Conclusions:
- The lidocaine patch 5% demonstrated no significant benefit in improving pain control or reducing narcotic requirements for patients with traumatic rib fractures.
