local anesthesia

local anesthesia, the infiltration of a local anesthetic medication to induce the absence of sensation into a small area of the body. Brief surgical or dental procedures are the most common indications to avoid general anesthesia. The anesthetic may be applied topically to the surface of the skin or membrane or injected subcutaneously or intradermally. Advantages include low cost, ease of administration, low toxicity, and rapid recovery. A conscious patient can cooperate and does not require respiratory support or intubation. In all cases, the recommended dosage of any agent is the smallest possible to achieve the desired effect because toxicity is directly related to the total amount of drug given. Each local anesthetic agent also has a recommended maximum allowable dose that is not safely exceeded. Compare general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, topical anesthesia. See also anesthesia.