Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy of Emla Cream (eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetic) and a Placebo (normal Saline) in Producing Dermal Analgesia for Venous Cannulation

Background: Venous cannulation is the most commonly performed invasive procedure in hospital patients. It is painful and associated with a high incidence of vasovagal reactions and pressor responses in patients. Objectives: The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of eutectic mixture of local anesthetic cream in producing dermal analgesia for venous cannulation. Material and Method: 200 patients were selected randomly of either sex, and divided into two groups. In group-I EMLA cream was applied and in group-II normal saline (placebo) was applied. Pain for intravenous cannulation was assessed by VAS scale. Results: The mean pain score for venous cannulation in patients with EMLA cream was very less when compared to the placebo group. Conclusion: EMLA cream is effective in producing dermal analgesia in response to venous cannulation.