Hypnosis as an adjunct to the administration of local anesthetic in pediatric patients

This study investigates the acceptance of local anesthetic injection, utilizing hypnosis in twenty-nine children, ages four to thirteen years. Each subject was evaluated twice, once utilizing hypnosis before injection, and once without. A double blind research design was used to avoid effects of expectancy. Subjects in the study were videotaped during the procedure. Their behavior was rated independently by two pediatric dentists, using the North Carolina Behavior Rating Scale (NBRS). Transcutaneous pulse oximetry data were also recorded for each subject. The resulting data were evaluated for statistically significant differences between the two methods and for interrater reliability. Results showed no statistically significant differences in oxygen saturation due to hypnosis condition, order of treatment, sex, race, or age. Statistically significant differences were found in pulse rate and behavior, attributable to hypnosis condition and age, but not to sex, race, or order of treatment. Pulse rate decreased with hypnosis, as did crying. The hypnosis condition seemed to be more successful with younger children (four to six years old).