Name of the Procedure:

Anesthesia for all closed procedures involving the upper two-thirds of the femur

Summary

This anesthesia procedure is specifically administered to manage pain and ensure comfort during closed procedures on the upper portion of the femur (thigh bone). Closed procedures refer to interventions that do not require open surgery.

Purpose

The procedure is designed to:

• Provide pain relief and sedation.
• Ensure patient immobilization.
• Facilitate smooth execution of the closed procedure on the femur.

Indications

• Fractures of the upper two-thirds of the femur.
• Conditions requiring closed reduction and alignment of the femoral bone.
• Patient criteria include those who are medically fit for anesthesia without contraindications.

Preparation

• Patients typically need to fast for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to regular medications may be necessary, especially anticoagulants.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests may include blood tests, X-rays, or other imaging studies.
• A thorough medical evaluation and anesthetic assessment will be conducted.

Procedure Description

1. The anesthesiologist will review the patient's medical history and assess vital signs.
2. An intravenous (IV) line will be established for medication administration.
3. The chosen anesthesia could be general, regional (e.g., spinal or epidural), or local, depending on specific surgical needs and patient factors.
4. Anesthesia is administered to induce unconsciousness or numbness in the targeted area.
5. Continuous monitoring of the patient's vital signs will be maintained throughout the procedure.
6. Sedation levels will be adjusted as needed to ensure patient comfort and safety.

Duration

The anesthesia administration and monitoring last throughout the closed procedure, which generally takes 1-2 hours.

Setting

• The procedure is typically performed in a hospital's surgical suite or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Anesthesiologist
• Anesthesia nurse or assistant
• Orthopedic surgeon
• Surgical nurses

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache.
• Rare risks: Allergic reactions, anesthesia awareness, nerve damage, respiratory complications.
• Possible complications: Cardiovascular issues, blood clots, infections, adverse responses requiring immediate medical management.

Benefits

• Effective pain management during the procedure.
• Reduced discomfort and anxiety for the patient.
• Enables precise completion of closed femur procedures, which can lead to better long-term outcomes.

Recovery

• Monitoring in a recovery room until the effects of anesthesia wear off.
• Instructions for post-procedure care, such as activity limitations and pain management.
• Expected recovery time varies based on the type of anesthesia and procedure but typically includes rest for several hours post-procedure.
• Follow-up appointments to assess healing and function.

Alternatives

• Pain management with local anesthesia or regional blocks alone, if appropriate.
• Non-surgical interventions or conservative management depending on the injury or condition.
• Each alternative has its benefits and risks, which should be discussed with the treating physician.

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel sensations of drowsiness and disorientation as the anesthesia takes effect.
• During the procedure, there shouldn’t be any pain, though some sensations of pressure might be felt.
• Post-procedure, patients might experience temporary side effects like grogginess, mild pain, or nausea.
• Pain management plans, including medications and comfort measures, will be provided to ensure the patient's well-being during recovery.