Use of intra-articular lidocaine as analgesia in anterior shoulder dislocation: a review and meta-analysis of the literature

– Based on the current literature, it appears that the intra–articular lidocaine (IAL) method provides, at a minimum, the same level of pain control and reduction success as the procedural sedation method, while markedly reducing the time spent by the patient in the emergency department and the cost of treatment. The likelihood of complications is arguably less with the use of IAL. Although more research is this area is merited, physicians may consider IAL as an alternative to procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA) in the management of anterior shoulder dislocations.