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Near-infrared light-activated lidocaine microneedle patch for rapid local anesthesia
Shuailei Wang1, Ze Qiang Zhao2,3, Yumiao He1
1Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
Theranostics
|April 17, 2026
Summary
A novel microneedle system delivers local anesthesia rapidly and with minimal invasiveness. This technology offers effective pain management for minor procedures, improving patient comfort and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Effective local anesthesia is crucial for minor surgeries like aesthetic procedures.
- Conventional methods often lack rapid onset and minimal invasiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a photothermal-responsive microneedle system for local anesthesia.
- To assess its efficacy, safety, and invasiveness compared to traditional methods.
Main Methods:
- A lidocaine-loaded microneedle system (LiH/MXene@MNs) utilizing MXene and near-infrared (NIR) irradiation was designed.
- Mechanical, optical, histological, in vitro, and in vivo studies were conducted.
- Anesthesia onset and duration were evaluated in a rat plantar incision model.
Main Results:
- The LiH/MXene@MNs system demonstrated efficient skin penetration and drug loading.
- Anesthesia onset occurred within 5 minutes and lasted up to 60 minutes.
- The system showed minimal invasiveness and excellent biosafety in vitro and in vivo.
Conclusions:
- The LiH/MXene@MNs platform provides an efficient, minimally invasive, and safe alternative to conventional local anesthesia.
- This technology shows significant potential for pain management in minimally invasive aesthetic procedures.
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