Objective: To compare the efficacy of lidocaine spray 10% to tetracaine 2% solution, as a local anaesthetic for patients undergoing monopolar submucosal diathermy of the inferior turbinate.
Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 48 patients undergoing submucosal diathermy of the inferior turbinate. Patients were randomly assigned to receive tetracaine 2% solution (24 patients) or to receive lidocaine spray 10% (24 patients). Patients were asked to evaluate the severity of pain during the procedure using a visual analogue scale. Patient data, pain scores, and potential complications were assessed statistically.
Results: The tetracaine group had significantly lower mean pain scores compared to the lidocaine group: 2.29 vs. 3.04 (p < 0.001). There were no complications or side effects from tetracaine.
Conclusion: Tetracaine 2% solution applied locally is an easy, safe, inexpensive, and effective analgesia for submucosal diathermy for inferior turbinate hypertrophy.