Comparing ultrasound guided and traditional hematoma blocks for pain relief in wrist fractures

Comparison of Ultrasound-guided Hematoma Block and "Blind" Hematoma Block for Analgesia in Distal Radius Fractures

NA · Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NCT02346929

This study tests whether using ultrasound to guide pain relief injections can work better for adults with wrist fractures than the traditional method.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment115 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
SponsorBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (other)
Locations1 site (Boston, Massachusetts)
Trial IDNCT02346929 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasound guided hematoma blocks compared to traditional 'blind' hematoma blocks for providing analgesia during the reduction of distal radius fractures. Hematoma blocks involve injecting lidocaine into the fracture line to alleviate pain, but can be challenging in cases of significant swelling. By utilizing ultrasound, the study seeks to enhance the precision and efficacy of this analgesic technique. The research will involve adult patients presenting with distal radius fractures in the emergency department.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older presenting to the emergency department with a distal radius fracture.

Not a fit: Patients with high acuity distress, altered mental status, or significant communication barriers may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management techniques for patients with distal radius fractures.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been case reports indicating the feasibility of ultrasound guided hematoma blocks, this is the first randomized controlled trial comparing it to traditional methods.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patient ≥ 18 years old presenting to the emergency department with complaint of distal radius fracture

Exclusion Criteria:

* High acuity/distress per the Attending ED physician
* Altered mental status or intoxication
* Aphasia, mental retardation, dementia, or insurmountable communication barrier
* Acute psychiatric illness

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Distal Radius Fracture, Hematoma block, distal radius fracture reduction, ultrasound, ultrasound guided hematoma block, traditional hematoma block for analgesia, bupivacaine, pain reduction

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.