Comparison of efficacy of nitrous oxide inhalation sedation and oxygen inhalation sedation during administration of inferior alveolar nerve block in paediatric patient aged 7-10 years: a randomised double blind control study

Aim: The purpose of our study was to compare the efficacy of nitrous oxide and oxygen inhalation sedation for pain control during inferior alveolar nerve block administration in children. Design: In this randomized, double-blinded, parallel-group study, 40 children in the age group of 7-10 years divided into 2 groups: GroupA (Nitrous oxide sedation) and Group B (oxygen). Pain perception for local anesthesia was assessed using face, legs, activity, cry, consolability scale. Children’s behaviour was assessed using Frankl ratings, depth of sedation using Observer’s Assessment of Alertness/Sedation scale. The vital signs and oxygen saturation were recorded. Results: There was a statistically significant lower pain reaction in nitrous oxide group during administration of nerve block (P < 0.01). Improvement in the behavior of the children belonging to nitrous oxide group during and after the procedure as compared to the oxygen group (P < 0.01) was also observed. Conclusion: Nitrous oxide inhalation produces adequate sedation with vital signs within normal limits and treatments successfully completed.