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Published on: January 13, 2018
Inhaled nitrous oxide (Entonox) as a short acting sedative during bone marrow examination.
1Department of Haematology, Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Hull, UK.
Clinical and Laboratory Haematology
|September 27, 2006
Summary
Inhaled nitrous oxide (Entonox) significantly reduced pain during bone marrow examinations when used with local anesthesia. Most patients preferred this method for future procedures, indicating its effectiveness and safety.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Anesthesiology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy are crucial for diagnosing hematological diseases.
- These procedures are typically performed in outpatient clinics under local anesthesia.
- Managing patient discomfort during these procedures is essential for compliance and overall experience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of inhaled nitrous oxide (Entonox) as an adjunct to local anesthesia (LA) for bone marrow examinations.
- To assess the impact of Entonox on patient-reported pain and discomfort during the procedure.
- To determine patient preference for anesthesia methods in future bone marrow examinations.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving patients undergoing bone marrow examination in an outpatient setting.
- All patients received local anesthesia (2% lignocaine).
- Patients were randomized to receive either LA alone or LA combined with inhaled Entonox.
- Discomfort was assessed using a questionnaire post-procedure.
Main Results:
- A significantly lower proportion of patients reported severe pain (score 3) in the Entonox group (14%) compared to the LA alone group (33%) (P = 0.013).
- No adverse events were reported with the use of Entonox.
- A high percentage of patients (43/51) who received Entonox expressed a preference for its continued use.
Conclusions:
- Inhaled Entonox is a safe and effective adjuvant to local anesthesia for bone marrow examinations.
- Entonox significantly improves patient comfort by reducing procedural pain.
- This method is well-accepted by patients and recommended for enhancing the bone marrow examination experience.
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