Cryo-analgesia for Intravenous Cannulation in Children

A recent article discussed the common and distressing experience of children undergoing peripheral venous cannulation in hospitals – emphasizing the deep-rooted pain and anxiety associated with needle procedures. Various interventions, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, have been attempted to alleviate children's suffering. 

The results of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) compared the efficacy of EMLA cream and cryo-analgesia in reducing pain during intravenous cannulation in children aged 6–12 years.

The RCT involved 140 children, with significant findings indicating a lower pain score and reduced anxiety with cryo-analgesiathan with EMLA cream. 

Thus, it was concluded that cryo-analgesiaoffers more effective and rapid analgesia for intravenous cannulation in children. 

While cooling techniques, like vapocoolants, have been studied before with varying conclusions, the comparison of cryo-analgesiaagainst EMLA cream is noteworthy. Previous systematic reviews were inconclusive or showed limited benefit when cooling interventions were compared to placebos or no treatment. This study's unique comparison against an established pharmacologic agent adds interest to its findings.

While the study raises intriguing possibilities, further research is required before adopting cryo-analgesia as a standard practice for intravenous cannulation in pediatric patients.

Source: Parameswaran N. Indian Journal of Pediatrics. 2023 Dec.