Assessing effect of addition of hypnoanaesthesia to existing anaesthetic techniques in reducing anxiety and pain in adults and children undergoing dermatosurgical procedures

Hypnotherapy or trance-induction is a well-documented technique of intentionally inducing an altered conscious state where increased acceptability of verbal suggestions has been noted, along with a profound reduction of stress and anxiety. This can be used to alter perception of sensations including pain. This can be helpful for reduction of anxiety, as well as the perception of the needle prick, burning sensation of local anaesthetic agent, and residual sensations despite use of local anaesthetic agent. It has been used by small groups of surgeons, since 1946, by itself and as an adjunct for a host of surgical procedures including those otherwise requiring general anesthesia. Post-hypnotic suggestions can be used to have effects which continue after the trance and can be used to modify perception of post-operative pain.