Anesthesia blocks of the lower extremity - Comparing the Biojector(R) with needle and syringe

Pediatric surgical procedures frequently involve administration of preoperative local anesthesia, and because of the nature of these blocks, it is believed that needle-free injection could greatly enhance this aspect of clinical practice. The object of the study was to determine if needle-free injections with the Biojector(R)(1) were equivalent to needle and syringe injections for ankle, Mayo, neuroma, hallux, and digital anesthetic blocks. The results indicate that needle-free injection with the Biojector is equal to needle and syringe for some anesthesia blocks. More research in this area is needed to determine if technique with the Biojector has an impact on time of anesthesia onset or on level of discomfort and ecchymosis.