The effects of EMLA and a topical formulation of 4% amethocaine (Ametop) on pain associated with retrobulbar injection.

Browne, J; Raza, A; Awad, I; Tan, B; McAdoo, J; Shorten, G · Anaesthesia · 1999

rct · Level II

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Abstract

Retrobulbar block is commonly performed to provide anaesthesia for cataract extraction. This technique can cause significant discomfort. A prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled trial was carried out to investigate the efficacy of a eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics (EMLA) and a 4% amethocaine topical formulation (Ametop) in reducing the pain of retrobulbar injection. Ametop and EMLA proved to be of similar efficacy, both being superior to a placebo in alleviating the discomfort of retrobulbar block. No significant side-effects were observed with the use of either formulation.

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