Necrosis of the Right Hallux Secondary to Local Anesthesia by Lidocaine 2% with Adrenaline: A Rare and Preventable Complication

Abstract

Recent scientific studies support the safe use of lidocaïne with adrenaline for anesthesia of the extremities (fingers, toes, nose, ear, penis), these studies push back the myth that advises against the use of local anesthetic substances with adrenaline in these areas [1-3]. Ingrown toenail is a common condition of the big toe. Surgery is often necessary. Ingrown toenail surgery is relatively straightforward and is usually performed under local anesthesia [3]. We report here a rare case of hallux necrosis secondary to local anesthesia by lidocaine 2% with adrenaline. The objective of this presentation is to warn practitioners about the observance of precautions before using local anesthetics with adrenaline for anesthetic procedures of the extremities.

Keywords

• Necrosis of the right hallux
• Local anesthesia
• Adrenaline
• Preventable complication