Arch Plast Surg.  2014 Jul;41(4):312-316. 10.5999/aps.2014.41.4.312.

Tumescent Local Anesthesia for Hand Surgery: Improved Results, Cost Effectiveness, and Wide-Awake Patient Satisfaction

• Lalonde D
• Martin A

• KMID: 2267674
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5999/aps.2014.41.4.312

Abstract

This is a review article of the wide-awake approach to hand surgery. More than 95% of all hand surgery can now be performed without a tourniquet. Epinephrine is injected with lidocaine for hemostasis and anesthesia instead of a tourniquet and sedation. This is sedation-free surgery, much like a visit to a dental office. The myth of danger of using epinephrine in the finger is reviewed. The wide awake technique is greatly improving results in tendon repair, tenolysis, and tendon transfer. Here, we will explain its advantages.

Keyword

Epinephrine; Local anesthesia; Tourniquet

MeSH Terms

Anesthesia
Anesthesia, Local*
Cost-Benefit Analysis*
Dental Offices
Epinephrine
Fingers
Hand*
Hemostasis
Lidocaine
Patient Satisfaction*
Tendon Transfer
Tendons
Tourniquets
Epinephrine
Lidocaine