Comparative Assessment of Behavior, Anxiety, Pulse Rate, and Pain Perception in Children Using Different Local...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Pain Management
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Local anesthesia (LA) is crucial for dental procedures but can cause anxiety in children.
• Technological advancements aim to improve patient comfort during LA administration.
• Computer-controlled LA delivery systems offer potential for reduced pain and anxiety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare StarPen, VibraJect, and conventional syringes for pediatric dental anesthesia.
• Evaluate differences in behavior, anxiety, pulse rate, and pain perception.
• Assess the efficacy of innovative LA delivery systems.

Main Methods:

• 150 children (6-10 years) received inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) via randomized controlled trial.
• Groups: StarPen, VibraJect, or conventional syringe (n=50 each).
• Evaluated pain (FLACC), anxiety (VAS), pulse rate, and behavior (FBRS).

Main Results:

• StarPen showed significantly lower pain, anxiety, and pulse rate (p < 0.001).
• Children receiving StarPen exhibited better post-treatment cooperation and tolerance.
• VibraJect was more effective than conventional syringes but less so than StarPen.

Conclusions:

• StarPen is a superior device for minimizing pain and anxiety in pediatric dental anesthesia.
• The system acts as an effective behavior-management tool for children.
• Computer-controlled LA delivery enhances procedural tolerance and patient comfort.