Continuous quadratus lumborum block as part of multimodal analgesia after total hip arthroplasty: A case report

Abstract

Background: Commonly used epidural or systemic analgesics for pain control after hip surgery carry risk for potential adverse effects. In contrast, the quadratus lumborum block (QLB) utilizes a simple and easy fascial plane technique and provides a wide area of sensory blockade. Thus, the QLB may be beneficial as analgesia after total hip arthroplasty. Case: Here, we report the case of an 83-year-old man who received a continuous trans-muscular QLB as part of a multimodal analgesia after hardware removal and total hip ar-throplasty. The patient received a continuous infusion of 0.2% ropivacaine at 8 ml/h through an indwelling catheter in addition to patient-controlled analgesia with intrave-nous fentanyl and oral celecoxib. The patient’s pain scores did not exceed 4, and no addi-tional analgesics were required until postoperative day 5. Conclusions: Transmuscular QLB may be a suitable option for multimodal analgesia after total hip arthroplasty.