Hip Fracture
This chapter discusses hip fracture, which is a significant public health problem associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Pain with hip fracture is often severe but despite this is frequently undertreated in the elderly population. Untreated pain not only is inhumane but also is a significant risk factor for delirium in this population that is already at increased risk due to age-related cognitive decline. Hip fracture patients benefit from early intervention with regional analgesic techniques such as femoral or fascia iliaca block, as well as a scheduled regimen of nonopioid analgesics such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. While opioids are known to contribute to risk for delirium, pain itself is a much stronger risk factor, and when nonopioid options are exhausted, opioids should be carefully considered. Continuous nerve block techniques provide opportunities for extended pain relief, which is associated with improved recovery profile, greater satisfaction, and a decreased risk for complications.