Effectiveness of Hematoma block in acute pain management and closed reduction of fractures in children presenting to DHQ Kohat: An exploratory RCT

This study compares two methods of managing pain and performing a bone realignment procedure (closed reduction) for children with fractures of the forearm or lower leg bone. When a child breaks a bone and it needs to be straightened without surgery, pain relief is critically important. One method uses a 'hematoma block' — an injection of local anaesthetic directly into the fracture site — while the other uses intravenous (IV) pain medication. Both approaches are simple and don't require specialised equipment or training. The study aims to find out which is safer and more effective for children in terms of pain relief during the procedure and quality of the bone realignment. This research is being conducted in Pakistan at a district hospital setting. A child may be eligible if they are aged 7 to 14, have a closed (non-open) fracture of the forearm or shinbone that happened within the last 24 hours, requires realignment, and their parents and the child have provided consent and assent. Children with other medical conditions, joint fractures, fractures that don't need realignment, or multiple fractures are not eligible.