10.1016/j.ohc.2006.02.006

Local anesthesia is a common technique used to provide anesthesia for ocular surgical procedures. Despite improvements in operative conditions, there is still the potential for complications, both local and systemic, during routine procedures. This article discusses the physiology of neuronal function, the chemistry of various local anesthetic agents, and the pathogenesis of toxicity. It is vital for the practitioner to have thorough knowledge of these subjects in order to reduce risks when performing ophthalmic procedures.