The Origins and Development of Pre-emptive Dermatologic Anesthesia: A Systematic Review

Cureus. 2024 Mar 9;16(3):e55851. doi: 10.7759/cureus.55851. eCollection 2024 Mar.

Abstract

This study delves into the historical trajectory of dermatological anesthesia, tracing its roots from ancient civilizations to modern times. It emphasizes the relentless pursuit of pain relief in dermatologic procedures and the transformative impact of anesthesia on surgical practices. A comprehensive analysis was conducted through an extensive literature review, employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) systematic review model on the PubMed and Embase databases. A total of 1304 articles were initially identified, with six publications from these databases and 10 additional sources from the World Wide Web included in the study. This systematic approach allowed for a thorough examination of the historical journey of dermatological anesthesia. The historical trajectory outlined in this study highlights the progress in dermatological anesthesia, showcasing its impact on contemporary procedures with a continual emphasis on patient comfort and safety. As medical knowledge expands, the ongoing quest for enhanced pain control in dermatology remains a central focus.

Keywords: anesthesia; general dermatology; local analgesia; perioperative pain management; procedural sedation and analgesia.

Publication types

  • Review