Local anesthesia
Local anesthesiaService
Local anesthesia is a type of anesthesia that is used to numb a specific area of the body, such as a tooth or a small section of skin or mucous membrane. This type of anesthesia is typically used for minor procedures, such as dental work or minor skin surgery. Local anesthesia can be administered through a variety of techniques, including:
- Injections: A small amount of anesthetic is injected directly into the area to be numbed. This type of anesthesia is often used for dental work, minor skin surgery, and procedures involving the genitals or rectum.
- Topical anesthesia: An anesthetic cream or gel is applied directly to the surface of the skin or mucous membrane. This type of anesthesia is often used for procedures involving the skin or mucous membranes, such as removal of warts or biopsies.
- Nerve blocks: Local anesthetic is injected into or around a specific nerve or group of nerves to numb a specific area. This type of anesthesia is often used for hand, foot, and other limb procedures.
The process of administering local anesthesia begins with a pre-anesthetic evaluation, in which the anesthesiologist takes a medical history and conducts a physical examination to determine the patient's overall health status and any potential risks associated with the administration of anesthesia.
Once the pre-anesthetic evaluation is complete, the patient is then taken to the procedure room where the anesthesia is administered. The anesthesiologist will use imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or x-ray, to help guide the needle to the appropriate location for the injection. The patient will typically be awake during the procedure, but will not feel any pain or discomfort in the numb area.