Getting a needle into a medical port can be painful. For patients with implanted ports, finding the right way to dull that sting is important for comfort during necessary treatments. A large review of data involving 942 patients looked at several ways to manage this discomfort.
The study compared different methods, including lidocaine spray, cryotherapy (cold therapy), and cutaneous stimulation. The results showed that using lidocaine cream combined with the Valsalva maneuver—a specific breathing technique—was associated with lower pain scores than standard care or other treatments. Lidocaine spray and lidocaine cream alone also performed better than standard care.
While these findings are encouraging, it is important to note that the evidence is still early. The researchers found a limited number of trials and some studies had lower quality. Because there weren't many direct head-to-head comparisons between every method, these results should be viewed as exploratory rather than a final rule.
Common questions
What is the most effective way to reduce pain during a needle puncture?
The study found that lidocaine cream combined with the Valsalva maneuver was associated with lower pain scores compared to placebo, cryotherapy, cutaneous stimulation therapy, and standard care. However, because the evidence is currently exploratory and based on limited trials, you should talk to your doctor about which method is best for your specific situation.
Are there other options besides lidocaine cream?
Yes, the study also found that lidocaine spray, lidocaine cream alone, and the Valsalva maneuver alone all resulted in lower pain scores compared to standard care. Lidocaine cream specifically showed a higher probability of effectiveness than cutaneous stimulation therapy.
Is this treatment safe for patients with implanted ports?
The study did not report any specific adverse events or safety data regarding these methods. Because the findings are based on a limited number of trials and have low certainty, you should consult your medical team to discuss how these options fit into your care plan.
