Ultrasound-Guided Hematoma Block for a Clavicular Fracture

Clavicular fractures are commonly encountered in the emergency department (ED). Fracture pain is usually treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and opioids; however, both of these drug classes have potentially significant side effects that limit their use in certain patient populations. Hematoma blocks are safe and effective alternatives for pain control.

We present the case of a 39-year-old healthy man that presented to the ED with a clavicular fracture after a fall from a motorized scooter. He received minimal pain relief from hydrocodone-acetaminophen. A hematoma block was subsequently performed, with significant improvement in his pain. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Hematoma blocks are safe and effective treatments for clavicular fracture pain in the ED without the potentially significant side effects of NSAIDs and opioids.