rectal anesthesia [L, rectus, straight] , sedation anesthesia achieved by the insertion, injection, or infusion of an anesthetic agent into the rectum. This procedure is sometimes used in children and other patients who may be uncooperative or unable to tolerate medications. Absorption is unpredictable. Once an intravenous catheter can be inserted, the anesthetic is quickly converted to parenteral sedation or a general anesthetic.
