Benefits of analgesic blocks, PENG block (PEricapsular Nerve Group), in fast recovery after hip surgery

Hip fracture is a frequent orthopedic emergency which associates high morbidity and mortality and intense pain. Locoregional analgo-anesthetic techniques, both central and peripheral, occupy a preferential place in the multimodal therapeutic arsenal. Recently, a new regional blockade has emerged, the pericapsular block or PENG block (PEricapsular Nerve Group). The objective is to evaluate in patients with hip fracture, the antinociceptive efficacy of the preoperative PENG block, residual motor block and time for postoperative functional recovery.

Prospective descriptive observational study with patients going to have total hip arthroplasty. PENG block was performed before surgery. Pain was assessed with the Visual Numerical Scale (VNS) before the blockade, 30min later, in the immediate postoperative period and 24h after the intervention. Motor block according to the Bromage scale and time needed for assisted walking were also evaluated.

PENG block provided effective analgesia in all patients, with a decrease in at least 3 points on the VNS at every step in which it was evaluated. The average difference between pain before and after the block was 7.5 points on the VNS. It allowed the transfer and placement of the patient without hemodynamic alteration, exacerbation of pain or other complications.

PENG block is an effective and safe regional analgesic technique for patients with hip fracture. It allows mobilization and placement before surgery without pain exacerbation, promoting early mobility and rehabilitation.