Efficacy of Lidocaine with or without Epinephrine in Rigid Nasal Endoscopy

Abstract

Background This study evaluates if there is any benefit of adding epinephrine to lidocaine in patients undergoing diagnostic rigid nasal endoscopy. A prospective, randomized, double-blinded study was performed. Methods Seventy patients were randomized to receive either 2% lidocaine or 2% lidocaine with 0.2% epinephrine before rigid nasal endoscopy examination. Patients were asked to report the intensity of pain and discomfort they experienced using visual analog scale. An endoscopist recorded the ease to perform the procedure using the same scale. Intranasal structures visualized were also reported. Results There were no significant differences in pain, discomfort or ease of exam, or in the percentage of visualized nasal structures between the two groups. In the whole series, there were no significant differences in the studied variables based on gender or indication to perform endoscopy. Conclusion Adding epinephrine to lidocaine has no advantages in patients undergoing diagnostic rigid nasal endoscopy.