Pain Control for Hydrofluoric Acid Chemical Burn Using EMLA® creams

Purpose: Although Hydrofluoric acid(HF) is not a strong acid when compared to other hydrogen halides, it is a feared corrosive and is particularly dangerous at higher concentrations. HF burns are characterized by symptoms, often delayed and localized with diluted HF solutions, to include erythema, edema and severe pain. Pain, a well known symptom following exposure to calcium binding. And, EMLA$^{(R)}$ cream is a topical formulation based upon the eutectic mixture of lidocaine and prilocaine and is used in clinical settings to provide pain relief undergoing superficial surgical procedures. The aim of this study is to evaluate effects of EMLA$^{(R)}$ cream, pain - control dressing on the treatment for HF injury wound. Methods: From June 2007 to June 2008, this study was carried out with 10 patients who had HF partial thickness burns. We were applied topically EMLA$^{(R)}$ cream to injured wound with vaseline gauze and 10% calcium gluconate wet gauze dressings. As a principle, in the emergency treatment, partial or complete removal of the bullae along with copious washing with normal saline was done, depending on the degree of HF invasion of the distal digital extremities. The effect of dressing was investigated by visual analogue pain scale. Results: We therefore reviewed 10 cases of HF - induced pain and pain relief treatment principle. The 10 cases who came to the hospital nearly immediately after the injury healed completely without sequelae and EMLA$^{(R)}$ related complications. Conclusion: Proper initial treatment of HF burns are important, if not promptly recognized and properly treated, for produce serious injury. Topical EMLA$^{(R)}$ cream remain a powerful, new advancement for minimizing HF - related pain during dressing procedures. When used appropriately, topical EMLA$^{(R)}$ cream can provide a safe and effective alternative to other forms of HF - pain control treatment.

EMLA® 연고를 이용한 불산 화학 화상의 통증 조절