Lidocaine spray vs tetracaine solution for transnasal fiber-optic laryngoscopy

Abstract Statement of problem The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of lidocaine spray 10%, compared with tetracaine 2% solution, as a local anesthetic for patients undergoing transnasal fiber-optic laryngoscopy. Method of study A prospective study was conducted on patients undergoing transnasal fiber-optic laryngoscopy. Microsurgical sponges were applied in each side of the nose for 10 minutes before laryngoscopy. Patients were randomly classified into group A and group B, in which tetracaine 2% solution and lidocaine spray 10% were used, respectively. Patients were asked to evaluate the severity of pain during the procedure by a visual analog scale. Patients data, pain score, and potential complications were placed in a database and statistically assessed. Main results Our series consisted of 48 patients. Statistical analysis showed significant lower mean nasal discomfort score in favor of the tetracaine group (2.29 vs 3.04 [ P < .001]). No tetracaine complications or side effects occurred. Principal conclusion Neurosurgical sponge application of tetracaine 2% solution is an easy, safe, inexpensive, and effective analgesia for transnasal fiber-optic laryngoscopy.