Ophthalmic loco-regional anaesthesia: Reducing discomfort during injection

Abstract

Loco-regional anaesthesia is commonly used for both intraocular and extraocular surgical procedures, although the provision and use of the anaesthetic technique varies worldwide. Injection techniques (retrobulbar, peribulbar and sub-Tenon's blocks) are associated with significant pain; indeed, many patients have a fear of pain. Discomfort during injection can, however, be reduced and patients can be made comfortable through reassurance, careful performance of the technique and the provision of sedation and/or analgesia. In this article, the authors describe common loco-regional anaesthetic techniques and measures to reduce discomfort during injection, thus improving patient satisfaction.