2025, Vol. 8, Issue 3, Part A

Background: To manage pain associated to hip surgeries, pericapsular nerve group block (PCNG) is introduced as an innovative technique aimed to improve analgesia. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of PCNG block to suprainguinal fascia iliaca compartment block (SFIC) for managing pain following hip operations.
Materials and Methods: In this study, 60 patients were randomized into two groups: Group A (N=30) received PCNG with 20 ml of 0.75% ropivacaine and 10ml of 2% lignocaine with adrenaline, while Group B (N=30) received SFIC with 20 ml of 0.75% ropivacaine and 10ml of 2% lignocaine with adrenaline. Parameters assessed includes, visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, hemodynamic variables, sensory and motor block characteristics, duration of analgesia and the incidence of adverse events.
Results: In this study, no statistically significant differences were noted between the groups with respect to hemodynamic parameters, age, sex or ASA physical status classification. Group A exhibited a faster onset (8.94±1.37 min) and longer duration (11.94±0.74 hours) of sensory blockade compared to Group B (9.31±1.87 min; 11.81±0.86 hours). Similarly, the onset of motor block was marginally quicker and its duration longer in Group A (13.47±2.36 min; 10.31±1.33 hours) than in Group B (13.63±2.35 min; 10.05±1.55 hours). Notably, the duration of analgesia was significantly longer in Group A (13.23±1.17 hours) than in Group B (10.87±0.92 hours), with Group B also reporting higher mean VAS scores. The incidence of adverse drug reactions was low and comparable across both groups.
Conclusion: The PCNG block proved superior to the SFIC block in terms of postoperative analgesia, demonstrating a faster onset, prolonged duration of action, lower VAS scores, and minimal adverse effects.