Comparative Study of Infrainguinal and Suprainguinal Approaches of Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Hip Surgeries

Background: Hip surgeries are associated with significant postoperative pain that can delay rehabilitation and prolong hospital stay. Fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) is widely used for postoperative analgesia in hip procedures. The suprainguinal approach may provide better analgesic coverage compared with the conventional infrainguinal approach. Aim: To compare the postoperative analgesic efficacy of the suprainguinal and infrainguinal approaches of fascia iliaca compartment block in patients undergoing hip surgeries. Methods: A prospective randomized comparative study was conducted on 120 patients undergoing hip surgeries. Patients were divided into two groups of 60 each. Group S received a suprainguinal fascia iliaca compartment block, whereas Group I received an infrainguinal fascia iliaca compartment block. Postoperative pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale at various time intervals. The time to first rescue analgesic, total analgesic consumption, and adverse effects were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate tests with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: The time to first rescue analgesia was significantly longer in Group S (301.72 ± 18.46 minutes) compared with Group I (206.53 ± 21.37 minutes). Patients in Group S required fewer doses of tramadol in the first 24 hours postoperatively. VAS scores were significantly lower in Group S at later postoperative intervals. The incidence of nausea and vomiting was also lower in the suprainguinal group. Conclusion: The suprainguinal fascia iliaca compartment block provides superior and longer lasting postoperative analgesia compared with the infrainguinal approach in hip surgeries while reducing opioid requirements and associated adverse effects.