A comparison of suprascapular nerve block and procedural sedation analgesia in shoulder dislocation reduction

Twenty one patients presenting with a dislocated shoulder in the emergency department were randomized to receive either procedural sedation analgesia (SA) or an ultrasound-guided suprascapular nerve block (SNB) prior to reduction. This study aimed to compare hospital stay and reduction success between these techniques. Results indicated comparable success rates between groups, but a significantly shorter time to discharge and significantly fewer complications with SNB versus SA. Patient and physician satisfaction was similar between groups.