Journal of cataract and refractive surgery
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J Cataract Refract Surg · Apr 2005
Case ReportsUse of preservative-free lidocaine for cataract surgery in a patient allergic to "caines".
Although many patients have been labeled allergic to local anesthetics (LAs), true allergic reactions to LAs are rare. An 81-year-old woman with a history of procaine (Novocaine) allergy presented for cataract surgery. ⋯ Further testing with preservative-free lidocaine was negative, suggesting the patient was allergic to ester LAs and preservatives found in amide anesthetic preparations. Cataract extraction was subsequently and uneventfully performed in both eyes with topical anesthesia using preservative-free lidocaine.