Solution to Lidocaine Shortage: Insights from Dr. Allan C. Harrington and Dr. Connor P. Flint

The healthcare industry is currently facing an unprecedented shortage of lidocaine, a critical local anesthetic used in numerous medical procedures. In response to this challenge, Dr. Allan C. Harrington, Founder of WellAve Dermatology and renowned Mohs Surgeon, alongside **Dr. Connor P. Flint**, have co-authored an insightful paper titled “Lidocaine Dilution: A Proven Strategy to Deal With Lidocaine Shortage and Price Increase. This study presents a practical solution that conserves lidocaine supplies while maintaining effective pain management for patients.  

What is Lidocaine Dilution?

Lidocaine dilution involves reducing the concentration of commercially available lidocaine to extend its supply without compromising its efficacy as a local anesthetic. This technique was initially introduced as tumescent anesthesia for liposuction and has since been adapted for larger soft tissue surgeries in dermatology.  

In their Mohs surgical practice, Dr. Harrington and Dr. Flint have successfully used a diluted solution of **0.25% lidocaine with 1:400,000 epinephrine** for over 10 years. This approach was validated through a **double-blind, institutional review board-approved study**, which confirmed that diluted lidocaine is just as effective as traditional concentrations for maintaining anesthesia during surgical procedures.  

Key Findings of the Study:

Efficacy and Safety: The study compared 0.25% diluted lidocaine with the standard 1% concentration. It found no difference in pain control or duration of anesthesia, demonstrating that the diluted solution is **non-inferior** to its higher-concentration counterpart.  

Cost Efficiency: By diluting lidocaine, the supply is effectively stretched by a factor of four, significantly reducing costs amid rising prices.  

Patient Comfort and Safety: The diluted solution not only conserves supplies but also minimizes the risk of lidocaine toxicity and epinephrine hypersensitivity, enhancing patient safety and comfort.  

Practical Implementation: The study outlines specific preparation methods for both high and low-volume practices, making it adaptable for different clinical settings.  

Impact on Dermatology and Beyond:  

This innovative approach is particularly beneficial for Mohs surgery, a precise technique for treating skin cancer. However, its application extends beyond Mohs procedures to other dermatological surgeries, potentially influencing practices worldwide.  

Through their research, Dr. Harrington and Dr. Flint address a critical gap in the dermatology field, offering a simple, safe, and cost-effective solution to the ongoing lidocaine shortage. By leading the way in adopting and validating this method, WellAve Dermatology continues to prioritize patient-centric care and clinical innovation.