This treatment is being offered to you to help relieve pain from your broken ribs if you are finding it difficult when you are moving, deep breathing or coughing.
What is a local anaesthetic block?
It consists of a small tube called a catheter being inserted into your back, different blocks are placed in slightly different areas depending on which one you need. The catheter then continuously provides local anaesthetic to reduce pain from broken ribs.
How does it work?
The local anaesthetic numbs the nerves in the affected area which carries the pain signals, meaning the pain signals are blocked so the pain is reduced. This should start to work within 30 minutes.
How is it done?
This Procedure is conducted by an anaesthetist or trained professional in theatre as the environment needs to be sterile.
- Prior to the procedure consent will be gained and all your details will be checked
- You will be attached to a monitor to keep an eye on your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels
- You will be asked to sit on the edge of the bed or lie on your side, whichever is more comfortable for you
- Your back will be cleaned with antiseptic
- A small amount of local anaesthetic will be injected into your back to numb the skin
- An ultrasound probe (with jelly on the end) will be placed on your back, between the spine and shoulder blade, to find the correct place to perform the block
- The procedure of inserting the catheter should not be painful but you may feel some pressure or pushing. If you have any discomfort just let the practitioner know
- After the injection your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels will be measured for half an hour
- After this you can go back to the ward, usually with less pain on breathing and coughing than before
- You will be followed up by the pain team to check how it is working and to make sure you are ok
How long does it last for?
The catheter can stay in place for up to 7 days depending on your pain and how you’re managing, this should provide constant pain relief whilst the catheter is in place. During this time, you can also have oral painkillers to complement this treatment. Prior to removal of the catheter, you’ll be given oral analgesia to manage any pain when the local anaesthetic wears off.
What are the side effects and complications?
Local anaesthetic blocks are a relatively new technique. However, it is becoming more commonly used as it is thought to have less risks than previously used techniques for fractured ribs. The practitioner will explain the risks prior to doing the block and will be happy to answer any questions you have before the procedure is conducted.
Risks
- Unresolved pain – it may not work for everyone
- Allergy to local anaesthetic
- Infection
- Bleeding
If you have any questions or concerns just speak to the nursing staff looking after you and they will be happy to help.
Date of Review: January 2024
Date of Next Review: January 2026
PI_M_1896 (Oldham)