Background and Aims Postoperative pain management after major orthopedic surgeries such as total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one of the biggest considerations [1]. Suprainguinal fascia iliaca block (SFIB) might be beneficial for postoperative pain control after THA, but the value persists controversial [2]. This prospective, randomized, double-blinded study aimed to investigate the analgesic efficiency of SFIB after THA compared to control group (C).

Methods LUHS Bioethics Committee granted the research (No. BEC-MF-250). 36 patients scheduled for THA were randomized into two groups: 16 in SFIB and 20 in C group. After the operation, a blinded observer recorded pain, extent of motor block (Bromage scale), opioid consumption and additional painkillers. Evaluation of pain: at 3, 6, 24 and 48 hours postoperatively, patients were assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) on the operated leg at rest, in active and passive 45° flexion positions.

Results 36 patients were assessed, 19 (52,8%) men and 17 (47,2%) women. There were no differences between the groups with respect to demographics. Opioid consumption after 24 hours postoperatively was reduced in SFIB group, unfortunately not statistically significantly (p>0,05). The VAS scores at rest and in motion also were similar at all-time points as well as the extent of motor block. Consumption of additional painkillers was less after 24 hours in SFIB (38,9%) than C (50%) and after 48 hours SFIB (27,8%), C (44,4%) but statistically insignificant (p>0,05).

Conclusions We conclude that postoperative pain management with SFIB may be valuable after THA. However, a larger study is needed to make the data more reliable.