OBJECTIVES:
Determine adherence to a newly implemented protocol of fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) in geriatric hip fractures.
METHODS
Design:
Retrospective review
Setting:
Level I trauma center
Patient Selection Criteria:
Patients with a hip fracture treated with cephallomedullary nailing or hemiarthroplasty (CPT Codes 27245 or 27236).
Outcome Measures and Comparisons: Adherence to a protocol for FICB, time intervals between emergency department arrival, FICB, and surgery stratified by time of admission.
RESULTS:
380 patients were studied (average age 78, 70% female). 53.2% of patients received a FICB, which was less than a pre-defined acceptable adherence rate of 75% (p<0.001). 5.0% received a FICB within 4 hours and 17.3% within 6 hours from admission. Admission during daylight hours (7am-7pm) when compared to evening hours (7pm-7am) was associated with improved timeliness ([8.3% vs 0% within 4 hours, p<0.001], [27.5% vs 2.4% within 6 hours, p<0.001]). Improved adherence to the protocol was observed over time (OR: 1.0013, 95% CI: 1.0001, 1.0025, p=0.0388).
CONCLUSIONS:
FICB implementation was poor but gradually improved over time. Few patients received a FICB promptly, especially during night hours. Overall, this study demonstrates that implementation of a FICB program at a level I academic trauma center can be difficult however, many hurdles can be overcome with institutional support and dedication of resources such as staff, space and additional training.