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Lidocaine is not necessary in liposuction
1Section of Plastic Surgery at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Franklin Park, USA. arthur.perry.md@worldnet.att.net
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|November 30, 1999
Summary
This study found that lidocaine in tumescent liposuction does not reduce postoperative pain. Eliminating lidocaine may prevent potential toxicity and adverse effects associated with its use.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Lidocaine is commonly included in wetting solutions for liposuction, despite exceeding recommended dosages.
- Its use is justified by the belief that it reduces postoperative pain, even under general anesthesia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare postoperative pain between sides of the body where lidocaine was used versus where it was not during liposuction.
Main Methods:
- A paired, mirrored-side study design was employed with 10 patients undergoing liposuction.
- Pain levels were assessed at multiple time points post-procedure, including 5, 30, 60, 120 minutes, and the first postoperative day.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant difference in postoperative pain was observed between the lidocaine-treated side and the control side.
- Pain scores were comparable across all measured time points.
Conclusions:
- Lidocaine is not a necessary component of tumescent liposuction wetting solutions.
- Eliminating lidocaine can mitigate risks of toxicity and potential lethal effects without compromising pain management.