Authors' recommendations: Suturing of simple lacerations in pediatric patients and pediatric circumcision are frequent painful procedures. There was little evidence identified to ascertain optimal agent or combination of agents for these procedures. The included studies suggested topical anesthetic use for suturing instead of, or preceding, anesthetic infiltration. The literature reports that LET solution is a choice that is effective, rapid-acting, and practical to use in suturing of simple lacerations of the face and scalp. Considering the limited available information, selection of a specific topical anesthetic product for pediatric suturing is difficult. No literature was identified related to the role of topical anesthetics or LET solution in neonatal or pediatric circumcision. No evidence-based guidelines about the use of topical anesthetics in pediatric patients for suturing or circumcision were identified. Concerns about appropriate pain management in pediatric patients may be addressed with published evidence in the future. The limited information should be considered in decisions about the use of topical anesthetics in pediatric patients.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.cadth.ca/media/pdf/htis/L0090%20Anesthetics%20in%20Pediatrics%20final.pdf

Year Published: 2009

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health

Contact Address: 600-865 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1S 5S8 Canada. Tel: +1 613 226 2553; Fax: +1 613 226 5392;

Contact Name: requests@cadth.ca

Contact Email: requests@cadth.ca

Copyright: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)