[Application of EMLA creme before upper lid blepharoplasty]

Author(s): Henrici K, Clemens S, Tost F

Affiliation(s): Klinik und Poliklinik fur Augenheilkunde, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt Universitat, Greifswald.

Publication date & source: 2005-08, Ophthalmologe., 102(8):794-7.

Publication type: Clinical Trial; English Abstract; Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND: The injection of local anesthesia before upper lid blepharoplasty is perceived as unpleasant and painful by some patients. METHODS: In an intraindividual randomized prospective study, 14 patients undergoing upper lid blepharoplasty on both sides were examined. Before the operation the EMLA creme was put on one side. The pain sensibility was checked before and after using EMLA creme and during the infiltration of anesthesia and the operation. RESULTS: The sensitivity before putting on EMLA creme was equal in all patients on both sides. After application there was a distinct difference between the sides. During the infiltration of anesthesia 12 patients reported low and 2 patients medium pain on the treated side, while on the non-treated side 5 patients reported low, 4 patients medium, and 5 patients severe pain. CONCLUSIONS: Applying EMLA creme before an operation reduces the pain sensitivity during infiltration of anesthesia and during the operation.