Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) Block for Postoperative Analgesia and Early Functional Recovery in Patients Undergoing Hip Fracture Surgery: An Observational study

Abstract

Introduction: Effective postoperative analgesia is essential for early mobilization following hip fracture surgery. This study evaluated postoperative analgesia and early functional recovery following ultrasound-guided pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 90 patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. Postoperative pain scores, duration of analgesia, rescue analgesic requirements, quadriceps muscle strength, early mobilization, patient satisfaction, and adverse events were assessed. Results: The mean NRS score at rest was 1.2 ± 0.7 immediately postoperatively, increasing to 2.8 ± 1.1 at 12 hours. The mean duration of analgesia was 10.8 ± 3.2 hours, and 31.1% of patients required no rescue analgesia. Normal quadriceps strength was observed in 92.2% of patients at 24 hours. The mean time to first mobilization was 18.6 ± 5.4 hours, while 60.0% walked with assistance within 24 hours. Overall, 88.9% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with pain management. Conclusion: PENG block may provide effective postoperative analgesia while supporting motor preservation and early functional recovery following hip fracture surgery.

Keywords: PENG block; Hip fracture; Postoperative analgesia; Quadriceps strength; Early mobilization.