Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]
-
Local anesthesia is an integral aspect of cutaneous surgery. Its effects provide a reversible loss of sensation in a limited area of skin, allowing dermatologists to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures safely, with minimal discomfort and risk to the patient. ⋯ Local anesthesia provides a safe and effective means of decreasing patient's sensitivity to pain. Because of its critical importance to the field of dermatology, a working knowledge of local anesthetics is necessary for optimal use of these agents.