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Emergency Department Use of Genicular Nerve Block for Sickle Cell Pain Crisis: A Case Report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Acute pain crises are a common emergency department presentation in patients with sickle cell disease. Pain management typically relies on multimodal analgesia, with opioids often playing a central role. We propose incorporating regional anesthesia techniques into the pain management regimen. Case Report: We present a case of a young patient with sickle cell disease experiencing an acute pain crisis with severe knee pain. A genicular nerve block was performed, resulting in significant pain reduction in the affected knee. Conclusion: Regional anesthesia, including isolated nerve blocks, may be safe and effective as part of a multimodal pain approach for patients suffering from acute pain crises due to sickle cell disease. This may help reduce the need for opioid or other sedating pain medications, as well as the inherent risks associated with increasing doses, such as respiratory depression.

Source: Clinical Practice and Cases in Emergency Medicine

DOI: 10.5811/cpcem.65803

Authors: Rosemary Beranek, Hayley Musial, Daniel Parsons-Moss, Andrea Dreyfuss

Language: English

Topic: Anesthesia and Pain Management

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $500

OpenAlex ID: W7223688456

FWCI:

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