Older Adults and Hip Fractures: How Local Numbing Can Help

Older adults often face hip fractures, a serious issue that needs careful attention. When these patients undergo surgery, managing pain and avoiding confusion afterward are big concerns. Doctors have a tool called regional anesthesia (RA) that can help. RA is not always used, even though it is recommended for pain control. This review looked at many studies to see if RA can make a difference.

Research Findings

Researchers searched through five big databases for studies published between 2015 and 2025. They found 1,727 articles but only 16 met the strict criteria. These studies were checked for quality using a special tool called AMSTAR. The findings show that RA, especially when combining spinal anesthesia with other techniques, can be very effective. It can:

• Reduce the need for strong painkillers
• Lower pain levels
• Decrease the risk of confusion after surgery

Benefits of RA Over General Anesthesia

Using RA instead of general anesthesia can lead to better results. Patients may:

• Spend less time in the hospital
• Recover faster

This is especially important for older adults, who can be more vulnerable to complications. The review suggests that RA should be considered more often for hip fracture surgeries.

Challenges and Considerations

However, it is important to note that not all hospitals or doctors may have the same resources or expertise to perform RA effectively. Also, each patient is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Therefore, while RA shows promise, it should be used carefully and tailored to each individual's needs.