topical anesthesia, anesthesia produced by application of a local anesthetic in the form of a solution, gel, or ointment to the skin, mucous membrane, or cornea. The most common agents include benzocaine, lidocaine, and tetracaine. Cocaine may be applied in solution to the mucous membranes of the nasal passages for certain surgical procedures. Also called surface anesthesia. Compare general anesthesia, local anesthesia, regional anesthesia.
