The effects of EMLA and a topical formulation of 4% amethocaine (Ametop) on pain associated with retrobulbar injection

Retrobulbar block is commonly performed to provide anaesthesia for cataract extraction. This technique can cause significant discomfort. A prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled trial was carried out to investigate the efficacy of a eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics (EMLA) and a 4% amethocaine topical formulation (Ametop) in reducing the pain of retrobulbar injection. Ametop and EMLA proved to be of similar efficacy, both bring superior to a placebo in alleviating the discomfort of retrobulbar block. No significant side-effects were observed with the use of either formulation.