Vibration Anesthesia for Propofol-Rocuronium Injection Pain

Abstract

Objective: Despite numerous strategies for preventing or alleviating pain associated with propofol and rocuronium injections, it remains common and distressing for patients. Application of vibration is an effective method of reducing pain during facial cosmetic injections and some venipuncture procedures. But it has been studied in limited trials for the context of propofol or rocuronium injection pain. This randomized study aims to evaluate the effect of vibration anesthesia on the incidence and severity of propofol and rocuronium injection pain. Methods: Fifty-one patients who underwent elective gynecologic operations under general anesthesia, were randomized, into two groups. On the dorsal side of the hand, a 20 G intravenous cannula was inserted. In Group V (n=25), propofol and rocuronium was administered following 1 minute of pre-treatment with the vibration device on the intravenous catheter trace. In Group C (n=26) vibration was not applied before drug administration. Propofol pain was recorded according to McCrirrick and Hunter scale and rocuronium injection pain response was evaluated with a four-point scale. Results: The number of patients who experienced propofol injection pain, in the vibration group was significantly lower than in the control group (p=0.007). The percentage of pain free patients in Group V was 88%, whereas 46% in Group C. The incidence of withdrawal movements associated with rocuronium injection pain was also significantly lower in Group V (p=0.043). Percentage of pain free patients in Group V was 28% whereas 3.8% in Group C. Conclusion: Vibration anesthesia before propofol and rocuronium injection significantly reduced the injection pain. Keywords: Injection pain, propofol, rocuronium, vibration