A study in Journal of Clinical Anesthesia found that chloroprocaine 3 prercent showed favorable outcomes compared to other local anesthetic choices.
The researchers identified 100 patients scheduled for popliteal block after minor ambulatory foot surgery. These patients received one of two local anesthetics: either 30 milliliters of chloroprocaine 3 percent or of 30 milliliters of mepivacaine 1.5 percent.
Here's what you need to know:
1. The onset time, block duration and discharge time were significantly shorter when chloroprocaine 3 percent was used.
2. Usage of chloroprocaine 3 percent did not negatively affect block efficacy or patient satisfaction.
3. There were no reports of readmissions or complications at the six week follow-up.
The researchers concluded that the "more expensive chloroprocaine 3% for ambulatory foot surgery can reduce total perioperative costs and reduce length of stay in outpatient patients."