What are the commonly used local anesthetics for surface anesthesia?
Apr 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, common local anesthetics used for surface anesthesia include lidocaine hydrochloride injection, procaine hydrochloride injection, tetracaine hydrochloride injection, ropivacaine mesylate injection, and compound benzocaine gel. Before using any new medication, patients should thoroughly inform their doctor about their allergy history, allowing the physician to select an appropriate anesthetic and avoid potential allergic reactions.
Commonly used local anesthetic agents for surface anesthesia include lidocaine hydrochloride injection, procaine hydrochloride injection, tetracaine hydrochloride injection, ropivacaine mesylate injection, and compound benzocaine gel. Detailed descriptions are as follows:
1. Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection
Lidocaine hydrochloride injection is commonly used for surface anesthesia in superficial surgeries and for hemostasis of surgical wounds. It effectively inhibits the generation and conduction of nerve impulses. During use, the patient's heart rate and blood pressure should be monitored to prevent central nervous system toxicity.
2. Procaine Hydrochloride Injection
Procaine hydrochloride injection is suitable for local infiltration anesthesia in brief surgical procedures and can also be used for intravenous combined anesthesia. It blocks the conduction of nerve fibers, providing temporary analgesia. The injection should be administered slowly to reduce injection-related pain, and a skin allergy test is required before use.
3. Tetracaine Hydrochloride Injection
Tetracaine hydrochloride injection can be used for surface anesthesia and penetrating keratoplasty. It has strong tissue penetration and can rapidly pass through intact skin to reach deeper tissues. It must be diluted before use and should not be mixed with other local anesthetics.
4. Ropivacaine Mesylate Injection
Ropivacaine mesylate injection is widely used in surgical procedures, including surface anesthesia. It is a long-acting amide local anesthetic that effectively blocks the conduction of nerve impulses. It is contraindicated in patients allergic to the drug and in those with myasthenia gravis.
5. Compound Benzocaine Gel
Compound benzocaine gel can be used as a surface anesthetic for oral mucosa and gums. This medication reduces the sensitivity of sensory neurons to painful stimuli. However, it should not be used in excessive amounts to avoid toxicity.
Before using any new medication, patients should thoroughly inform their physician of their allergy history, including drug and food allergies, to allow appropriate selection of anesthetics and prevent potential allergic reactions.
