What is local anesthesia?
Local anesthesia involves numbing a very limited, specific area of the body. It is often used in the case of minor surgery or in conjunction with regional or sedation anesthesia. Local anesthesia does not affect consciousness; however, local anesthetic medications can be used with either sedation anesthesia or regional anesthesia.

What are the different types of local anesthesia?

   • Surface Anesthesia – Surface anesthesia is when a cream or spray anesthetic is used
     to numb an area of the skin or mucus membrane.

   • Infiltration Anesthesia – Infiltration anesthesia is when an anesthetic medication
     is injected into the soft tissue.

What are the most common drugs used for local anesthesia?
Lidocaine is one of the most common drugs used for local anesthesia.

What types of procedures typically use local anesthesia?
Local anesthesia may be used for a variety of procedures. The most common are dental procedures, eye surgery and ear, nose and throat operations.

Are there any side effects associated with local anesthesia?
There are few if any risks with local anesthesia. For additional questions please ask your anesthesiologist about your specific case.