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Updated: May 30, 2026

CO2-Lasertonsillotomy Under Local Anesthesia in Adults
Published on: November 6, 2019
Complications of local anesthesia used in oral and maxillofacial surgery
David R Cummings1, Dennis-Duke R Yamashita, James P McAndrews
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Southern California School of Dentistry, Los Angeles County/University of Southern California Medical Center, 925 West 34th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
Abstract:
Local anesthetics are used routinely in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Local anesthetics are safe and effective drugs but do have risks that practitioners need to be aware of. This article reviews the complications of local anesthesia. A brief history is provided and the regional and systemic complications that can arise from using local anesthesia are discussed. These complications include paresthesia, ocular complications, allergies, toxicity, and methemoglobinemia. Understanding the risks involved with local anesthesia decreases the chances of adverse events occurring and ultimately leads to improved patient care.
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