Feasibility of 4% Topical Lidocaine for Pain Management During Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Dressing Changes in Pediatric Patients: A Case Study.

BACKGROUND: Opioid analgesics such as morphine are frequently used for pain management in pediatric patients undergoing dressing changes for negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). While these medications reduce associated pain, they are also associated with adverse side effects ranging from constipation, headache, and dizziness to respiratory depression, chest wall rigidity, and death. Alternative analgesic approaches are needed for pediatric patients undergoing NPWT. METHODS: Four percent topical lidocaine was used for pain management during dressing changes for NPWT in a 15-year-old Hispanic male with necrotizing adenopathy. CONCLUSION: The 4% topical lidocaine reduced the pain associated with dressing changes during NPWT. No adverse side effects were observed.