Knowledge of Local Anesthetic Use Among Dermatologists

Background Local anesthesia is widely used in general dermatology practices. The onus is on the practitioner to have a sound knowledge of the pharmacology and dosing of any drug used, including local anesthesia. The dermatologist should also be aware of the signs, symptoms, and management of toxicity of local anesthetic use. The level of knowledge of dermatologists on this topic has not been previously assessed. Objective To assess levels of knowledge of local anesthetic pharmacology, local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST), and the management of the latter of dermatologists. Methods A survey designed to test knowledge of absolute dosing limits; calculation of patient-specific dosing using clinical vignettes; and awareness of the signs, symptoms, and management of LAST was distributed electronically to the membership of three professional dermatological organizations in the United Kingdom and Ireland, including one specialist dermatologic surgery group. Results Knowledge of local anesthetic use of dermatologists was comprehensive enough to practice safely, without necessarily being entirely accurate. Awareness of the signs and symptoms of local anesthetic toxicity was good, but awareness of the specific agent now recommended for the management of LAST in official guidelines was poor. Conclusions Knowledge of local anesthetic dosing and toxicity is reasonable among dermatologists. Awareness of the guidelines for management of LAST, released by the American and Great Britain and Ireland associations of anesthetists, and in particular the use of lipid emulsion in this setting, could be improved.