Comparison of Room Temperature and Warmed Local Anesthetic Solution For Tumescent Liposuction

Dermatologic Surgery

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1996 Abstract

9608-707 Kaplan

 

Kaplan B, Moy RL.
Comparison of room temperature and warmed local anesthetic solution for tumescent
liposuction. A randomized double-blind study. Dermatol Surg. 1996 Aug;22(8):707-9. PMID: 8780763

Comment in:
Dermatol Surg. 1996 Aug;22(8):681.
Dermatol Surg. 1997 Apr;23(4):309.

Department of Dermatology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.

BACKGROUND: The tumescent technique of local anesthesia has been accepted as the
standard of care for liposuction surgery. Large volumes of a dilute solution of
lidocaine, epinephrine, sodium bicarbonate, and triamcinolone are infused into
the subcutaneous fat. The technique eliminates the need for general anesthesia
and provides greater safety and improved esthetic results. OBJECTIVE: A study
was designed to evaluate the benefit of warming of the local anesthetic to 40
degrees C prior to infiltration and thus to determine whether warming provides
improved patient comfort. METHODS: A double-blind randomized cross-over study
was performed in 16 patients undergoing outpatient tumescent liposuction. Pain
scores were determined using a visual analog pain scale. RESULTS: The mean pain
score was significantly lower for areas treated with the 40 degrees C warmed
solution. CONCLUSION: Warming of local anesthetic solution for tumescent
liposuction significantly reduces pain as perceived by the patient and is
recommended in all tumescent liposuction surgery.

Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial

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