Local anesthetics: procedures, safety, side effects, and benefits

Definition

What is a local anesthetic?

A local anesthetic is a drug that is injected into the tissue to numb the tissue. A local anesthetic temporarily stops the nerves from working so you don't feel any pain. The simplest form of local anesthesia is to inject the anesthetic only at the area where the operation will be performed. It can also be applied to all nerves in the arm or leg (nerve block).

When do I need to have local anesthesia?

Local anesthetics are often used by dentists, surgeons, anesthetists, and general practitioners when performing operations on small parts of the body. You will receive local anesthesia before undergoing minor surgery such as:

wisdom tooth filling or extraction

minor skin surgery, such as removal of moles and warts

biopsy, a tissue sample that is taken for further examination on a microscope
Sometimes local anesthesia can also be used for major surgery, such as certain brain surgeries. For example, if the brain tumor is located in an area of the brain that controls speech (Broca's area), you will be given a local anesthetic before the operation. After the tumor is removed, you will need to remain conscious in order to respond to the surgeon's instructions. This can reduce the risk of compromising your speech during the surgery.

Precautions & warnings

What do I need to know before undergoing local anesthesia?

If you feel uncomfortable if you have to wake up during surgery, general anesthesia, aka general anesthesia, can be done. There are also several other forms of anesthesia, such as epidurals or nerve blocks.

Process

What should I do before undergoing local anesthesia?

Your anesthetist, doctor or dentist will explain the preparations for your procedure. It is important for you to inform yourself if you are taking certain drugs, especially blood thinners. You will also be asked to fast for 6 hours beforehand. It is important that you follow the instructions from your doctor. Avoid consuming alcohol 24 hours before receiving local anesthesia or sedatives.

How is the local anesthetic process?

You will begin to feel numb in the area after a few minutes from the injection of the anesthetic. The operation will not begin until the doctor is sure that the area is numb. It is important to know that local anesthesia only relieves pain, but you can still feel pressure and movement during surgery. You will feel calm for a few minutes after being sedated. Depending on the strength and type of sedative used, you may feel sleepy. Sedatives can affect your breath. While you are sedated, your doctor will constantly monitor the amount of oxygen in your blood using a device on your finger. You may be given additional oxygen through a mask or plastic tube.