Entonox as an analgesic agent during panretinal photocoagulation. Issue 10 (1st October 2002)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cook, H L; Newsom, R S B; Mensah, E; Saeed, M; James, D; ffytche, T J
• Is Part Of: British journal of ophthalmology. Volume 86:Issue 10(2002)
• Page Start: 1107
• Page End: 1108
• Publication Date: 2002-10-01
• Subjects: diabetic retinopathy -- analgesia -- Entonox -- panretinal photocoagulation; Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1136/bjo.86.10.1107
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1161

Abstract

Abstract : Background/aims: Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) reduces the risk of visual loss in proliferative diabetic retinopathy but some patients cannot tolerate PRP because of pain. Inhaled Entonox was evaluated as an analgesic during PRP. Methods: A randomised, crossover, double masked pilot study was performed. Patients inhaled either air or Entonox and half the PRP was applied. The treatment was completed with the alternate inhaled gas. Patients graded pain experienced during both stages of the treatment using a visual analogue scale. Pain scores were compared using a paired t test. Results: 20 patients participated. Mean pain scores from the Entonox and air treatments were 2.94 (SD 2.73) versus 3.73 (SD 3.20) respectively (p<0.03). Conclusion: Entonox can be used as a safe and effective analgesic agent during PRP treatment.