[Topical versus contact anaesthesia in conventional trabeculectomy. Prospective randomised study]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Trabeculectomy is a common glaucoma surgery.
• Effective anesthesia is crucial for patient comfort and surgical success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare pain, comfort, and safety of conventional topical anesthesia versus contact anesthesia (lidocaine soaked film) during trabeculectomy.
• To evaluate surgeon stress and complication rates between the two anesthesia methods.

Main Methods:

• Fifty patients undergoing trabeculectomy were randomized to receive either topical or contact anesthesia.
• Pain and discomfort were assessed on a 0-5 scale before, during, and after surgery.
• Surgeon stress and complications were also recorded.

Main Results:

• Contact anesthesia showed significantly lower pain rates during and after surgery compared to topical anesthesia.
• Surgeon stress levels were also significantly lower with contact anesthesia.
• Patients receiving topical anesthesia required sedation and anesthetic method changes more frequently.

Conclusions:

• While topical anesthesia is adequate for trabeculectomy, contact anesthesia offers superior pain control and comfort.
• Contact anesthesia is a viable and practical alternative for patients undergoing glaucoma surgery.
• The study highlights the benefits of contact anesthesia in reducing patient and surgeon burden.