[Combination of Emla cream and nitrous oxide for venous cannulation in children].

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of an combination of Emla cream and N2O for venous cannulation in children.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, double blind trial.

PATIENTS

The study included 75 unpremedicated children, aged 3 months to 5 years, ASA physical class I and II, undergoing an elective surgical procedure, randomized into three groups.

METHODS

In group I and III, children received Emla cream one hour before entering the theatre. In group II, children received a placebo. Children of group I and III also inhaled 50 vol% nitrous oxide in oxygen and those of groupe II 100 vol% oxygen, 3 min prior and during venous cannulation. A blinded observer recorded the following items: pain assessment with CHEOPS scoring, conditions of venous puncture and behaviour of children. Heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation were assessed at three timepoints: before, 3 min after facial mask application and following venous cannulation.

RESULTS

There were non significant differences between the three groups for the conditions of venous cannulation. The CHEOPS score was better in group I (7[4-11]), compared to group II (10[6-13]; P < 0.01) and to group III (9[6-12]; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Emla cream combined with nitrous oxide is effective for venous cannulation in providing satisfactory analgesia and in controlling anxiety elicited by the vision of needle.