NaHCO3-Buffered Lidocaine Gel for Outpatient Rigid Cystoscopy in Men

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of NaHCO 3 -buffered lidocaine gel as a topical anesthetic agent for pain relief for rigid cystoscopy. Design Prospective randomized controlled trial. Methods ASA I-II male patients undergoing rigid cystoscopy randomly received 10 mL 2% Carbocaine lidocaine gel with 1 mL 0.9% saline (group 1) or 1 mL 5% NaHCO 3 solution (group 2). After 3 minutes exposure, the cystoscope was inserted into the urethra. On receiving the gel, cystoscope insertion, and intravesical observation, pain score was recorded using the visual analog scale. Findings The gel pH with or without NaHCO 3 was 7.20 and 6.41, respectively. The concentration of soluble lidocaine in the gel was stable for 24 hours or more. The visual analog scale score in group 2 was significantly lower (1.3 ± 0.9) than in group 1 (5.28 ± 1.99). No adverse effects were recorded. Conclusion Alkalized lidocaine gel resulted in successful analgesia for rigid cystoscopy in men without adverse effects.