Lignocaine Infusions Melbourne

What Are Lignocaine Infusions?

Lignocaine infusions, also known as intravenous lignocaine therapy, involve the administration of lignocaine, a local anaesthetic medication, directly into the bloodstream via an intravenous (IV) line. This therapy is primarily used in the management of chronic pain conditions that have not responded well to other conventional treatments.

The mechanism of action of lignocaine in managing chronic pain is not entirely understood, but it is believed to involve its ability to block sodium channels in nerve fibres, thereby interfering with the transmission of pain signals. 

By doing so, lignocaine can help reduce the perception of pain and provide relief for individuals suffering from various types of chronic pain, including neuropathic pain, central pain syndromes, and certain types of cancer-related pain.

During a lignocaine infusion session, patients typically receive a carefully calculated dose of lidocaine solution, which is infused slowly over a set period of time under close medical supervision. 

The infusion rate and duration may vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the patient’s individual response to the treatment, and other factors such as overall health and tolerance to the medication.

Lignocaine infusions are often administered in a clinical setting, such as a pain management clinic or hospital, where healthcare providers can monitor the patient’s vital signs and adjust the infusion rate as needed to ensure safety and effectiveness. In some cases, lidocaine infusions may be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to receive treatment without the need for an overnight hospital stay.

Overall, lignocaine infusions offer a potential therapeutic option for individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions that have not adequately responded to other treatments. However, like any medical intervention, lignocaine infusion therapy carries certain risks and potential side effects, which should be carefully considered and discussed with your pain management doctor and entire healthcare team before undergoing treatment.

What Do Lignocaine Infusions Treat?

Lignocaine infusions primarily target chronic pain conditions, particularly those involving neuropathic pain, central pain syndromes, and certain types of cancer-related pain. 

Neuropathic pain arises from damage or dysfunction of the nervous system, leading to abnormal signalling and perception of pain. 

Central pain syndromes involve pain that originates from the central nervous system, such as the brain or spinal cord, often resulting from conditions like stroke, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injury. 

Cancer-related pain can arise from the tumour itself, nerve compression, or as a side effect of cancer treatments.

How Do Lignocaine Infusions Alleviate Chronic Pain?

Lignocaine infusions work to alleviate chronic pain by targeting the transmission of pain signals within the nervous system. Lignocaine is a local anaesthetic that acts by blocking sodium channels on nerve fibres. These sodium channels are essential for the transmission of electrical signals along nerves, including those involved in the perception of pain.

When lignocaine is administered intravenously via infusion, it enters the bloodstream and reaches the nerve fibres throughout the body. Once there, it binds to the sodium channels and blocks them, preventing the influx of sodium ions that is necessary for the generation and propagation of pain signals.

By interrupting the transmission of pain signals, lignocaine effectively reduces the perception of pain in individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions. This can provide significant relief for conditions such as neuropathic pain, central pain syndromes, and certain types of cancer-related pain.

Additionally, lignocaine may have other effects within the nervous system, including modulation of neurotransmitter release and inhibition of neuronal excitability, which can further contribute to its pain-relieving properties.

Overall, lignocaine infusions offer a targeted and effective approach to managing chronic pain by directly interfering with the mechanisms underlying pain transmission in the nervous system.

Why Would You Get Lignocaine Infusions for Chronic Pain?

Lignocaine infusions may be considered for chronic pain management for patients  in situations where other treatments have been ineffective or are not well tolerated. 

Here are some reasons why someone might receive lignocaine infusions for chronic pain:

• Neuropathic Pain. Lignocaine infusions are often used for neuropathic pain, which arises from damage or dysfunction of the nerves. Conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia (shingles), and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) may benefit from this treatment.
• Central Pain Syndromes. Conditions like fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injury can lead to central pain syndromes, where pain originates from the central nervous system. Lignocaine infusions may help alleviate this type of pain.
• Cancer Pain. Lignocaine infusions might be used to manage cancer-related pain, either as a direct result of tumour growth or as a side effect of cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• Treatment Resistance. In cases where chronic pain does not respond well to other treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or nerve blocks, lignocaine infusions may be considered as an alternative or adjunctive therapy..
• Targeted Pain Relief. Lignocaine infusions allow for targeted pain relief by directly acting on the nervous system, providing localised pain relief.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo lignocaine infusion therapy for chronic pain should be made in consultation with your pain management doctor. You need to consider factors such as the specific type and severity of pain, overall health, and potential risks and benefits of the treatment.

Risks of Lignocaine Infusions

Lignocaine infusions, while generally considered safe and effective for managing chronic pain, do carry certain risks. Here are some potential risks associated with ligncaine infusions:

• Cardiovascular Effects. Lignocaine can affect the cardiovascular system, particularly if administered in high doses or in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. This may include changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or cardiac rhythm. Close monitoring by healthcare providers is necessary to mitigate these risks.
• Central Nervous System Effects. Lignocaine infusions can cause central nervous system side effects such as dizziness, confusion, headache, blurred vision, or seizures, especially if administered too rapidly or at excessive doses. Patients should be closely monitored during infusion to detect and manage these effects promptly.
• Allergic Reactions. While rare, allergic reactions to lignocaine can occur. Symptoms may include rash, itching, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis. Healthcare providers should be prepared to manage allergic reactions promptly if they occur.
• Local Reactions. Injection site reactions, such as pain, swelling, redness, or bruising, may occur at the site where the IV line is inserted. Tissue damage or necrosis can occur if the infusion leaks into surrounding tissues.
• Systemic Toxicity. In rare cases, lignocaine infusions can lead to systemic toxicity if administered too rapidly or at excessive doses. Symptoms of lignocaine toxicity may include dizziness, confusion, numbness or tingling around the mouth, muscle twitching, seizures, or cardiac arrhythmias.
• Nerve Damage. There is a risk of nerve damage if the IV line is inserted improperly or if the infusion solution leaks into or around nerves.
• Infection. As with any invasive procedure, there is a risk of infection at the site where the IV line is inserted. Strict adherence to aseptic technique can help minimise this risk.
• Drug Interactions. Lignocaine infusions may interact with other medications the patient is taking, potentially leading to adverse effects or decreased effectiveness of either medication.

It is important that your healthcare providers thoroughly evaluate your medical history, monitor vital signs during the infusion, and adjust the infusion rate or dose as necessary to minimise the risk of adverse effects. You should also be informed about the potential risks and benefits of lignocaine infusion therapy and encouraged to report any unusual symptoms or reactions during or after the infusion.

The Process of Getting Lignocaine Infusions

The process of getting lignocaine infusions typically involves several steps, beginning with consultation and assessment by a healthcare provider specialising in pain management. Here is a general rundown:

1. Consultation and Assessment. The first step is to schedule a consultation with a pain management specialist or healthcare provider experienced in administering lignocaine infusions. During this consultation, your physician will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and assess your current pain condition to determine if lignocaine infusion therapy is appropriate for you.
2. Discussion of Treatment Plan. If lignocaine infusion therapy is deemed suitable for your condition, your pain management doctor will discuss the treatment plan with you. This includes explaining the goals of the treatment, discussing potential risks and benefits, and addressing any questions or concerns you may have.
3. Preparation. Before the infusion, you may also be advised to continue taking any prescribed medications as usual, unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare team. The infusion is performed in a hospital setting and can run between 3-5 days depending on the individual circumstances.
4. Placement of IV Line. On the day of the infusion, you will be admitted to a ward where a healthcare provider will insert an intravenous (IV) line into a vein, usually in your arm or hand. The IV line allows for the controlled administration of the lignocaine solution directly into your bloodstream.
5. Lidocaine Infusion. Once the IV line is in place, the lignocaine infusion will begin. The lignocaine solution is typically administered slowly over a set period of time, and gradually titrated or adjusted, depending on the specific treatment protocol prescribed by your healthcare provider. Throughout the infusion, your vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation, will be closely monitored by healthcare staff to ensure your safety and comfort.
6. Monitoring and Observation. During the infusion, you will be closely monitored for any signs of adverse reactions or side effects, such as changes in heart rhythm, blood pressure, or neurological symptoms. If any concerning symptoms arise, the infusion may be adjusted or temporarily halted until the symptoms are addressed.
7. Post-Infusion Care. After the infusion is complete, you will be observed for a period of time to ensure that you are stable and free from immediate adverse effects. Your pain specialist may provide instructions for post-infusion care, including any medications to take or activities to avoid.
8. Follow-Up. Depending on your response to the lignocaine infusion therapy, your physician may schedule follow-up appointments to assess your progress, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, and discuss any further recommendations for pain management.

It is important to follow all pre- and post-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the lignocaine infusion therapy. Additionally, communicate openly with your pain management team about any concerns or changes in your condition throughout the treatment process.

Preparing for Lignocaine Infusions

Please refrain from undergoing any additional medical procedures, such as dental treatments or colonoscopies, within 48 hours before or after getting lignocaine infusions. 

Prior to your appointment, please inform us if:

• You are currently taking antibiotics.
• You have a pacemaker or defibrillator.
• You have any allergies.
• You have diabetes.
• You are feeling unwell, as we may need to reschedule your procedure.

You will need to arrange transportation to and from your appointment, as driving yourself is not advised within the 24-hour period following the procedure.

After Getting Lignocaine Infusions (Follow-Up)

You can usually return home shortly after completion of a lignocaine infusion. There are no specific restrictions on your day-to-day activities. However, it is advisable to prioritise rest and keep your activity level mild during the initial 24 hours post-procedure.

Occasionally, you may experience some discomfort or bruising at the injection site. Relief typically begins within 48 hours as the medication takes effect.

The effectiveness of a lignocaine infusion can last anywhere from several days to weeks to months following the procedure. Please reach out to Persistent Pain Solutions with any questions or concerns during your recovery period.

Finding a Doctor Who Performs Lignocaine Infusions Near You

If you are suffering from acute spinal cord injuries, polyneuropathy, complex regional pain syndrome, deafferentation, or postamputation pain, or are dealing with central pain syndromes or cancer pain unresponsive to other treatments, then intravenous lignocaine infusions may be the right treatment for you. 

Finding a pain specialist or pain management doctor who offers lignocaine infusions may be a source of some relief. 

If you are suffering from one of the aforementioned conditions, ask your general practitioner for a referral to a pain management physician who provides lignocaine infusion or similar procedures for neuropathic pain. You can also research pain management clinics online or speak to family members, friends, or support groups (both online and in real life) for recommendations; those who have dealt with similar chronic pain issues or other problems may have valuable advice to offer. 

Lignocaine infusions can alleviate some types of pain, providing a higher quality of life for patients dealing with chronic pain conditions that have not responded well to other treatments. 

Please note that Dr Mittal does not directly offer this treatment but will refer you to her collaborative associates to provide access to this treatment.