Haematoma block: a potentially useful technique for Australasia

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Abstract
Haematoma block is a simple, safe and effective anaesthetic technique used to facilitate the reduction of closed fractures. It was described in the 1920s and is in common use worldwide. Haematoma block has been used effectively in patients as young as two years of age. It has the advantages of ease of administration, fast onset, long duration of fracture‐site analgesia, and it does not require specialised equipment. Haematoma block may be safely administered by a single doctor. It is unique in the ability to provide fracture‐site analgesia without sedation or cumbersome tourniquet, making it ideal for many medical retrieval situations. The safety of the technique makes it well suited to rural practice. The speed and minimal monitoring requirement enhances its utility in the busy urban emergency department.