|
With the growing demand for tattoos on epidermal (skin) or mucous membrane areas for vanity pleasure, there is a need to clarity which is truly mucous membranes and those that are not; since not all membranes secrete mucus. The mucous membranes are linings of mostly endodermal origin, covered in epithelium, which is a tissue, composed of layers of cells. Their function is involved in absorption and secretion. They line various body cavities that are exposed to the external environment and internal organs. They are at several places throughout the body that engages or are continuous with skin: such as at the nostrils, the lips, the ears, the genital area, and the anus. The sticky, thick fluid secreted by the mucous membranes and gland is termed mucus. Mucous membrane refers to where they are found in the body and not every mucous membrane secretes mucus. Body cavities featuring mucous membrane include, the glans penis (head of the penis) also glans clitoris but the inside of the foreskin and clitoral hood are not mucous membranes; however, the urethra is a mucous membrane but to my knowledge no one has ever chosen that membrane for a tattoo. The secreted mucus traps the pathogen which is the biological name for an infectious agent, or more commonly germs that causes disease or illness to its host in the body, preventing any further activities of diseases. However, if the immune system or "good" bacteria is damaged in any way (human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or antibiotics being taken to kill other pathogens), such pathogenic bacteria that were being held at bay can proliferate or multiply and cause harm to the host. Such cases are called opportunistic infections. Patrons should never submit to tattoos if they are HIV positive or are taking antibiotics. Secreted mucus is not impervious to all pathogens (bacteria, germs). In spite of pain, the vanity industry, mainly tattoo studios are on an exponential growth pattern. The reason for this is multi faceted ranging from being macho to being in style and more recently, the popular term is being pressured into taking a sip the “Kool-aid”. However; ironically, the mere fact each patron who strives to be unique, is now part of a well defined group. The end result is that more and more young people are into the epidermal dyes. My personal comment is that some tattoos are quite well implanted and attractive. However, the industry will eventually level out as it does with attrition. Those who are anxious to have a tattoo implanted balanced by those who are anxious to have one removed. Because pain is involved in both processes, it will depend on how well equipped, trained and qualified to deliver the goods painlessly, are the artists, permanent and visiting professionals to any of these studios. Most individuals are incapable of conveying their pain threshold, since this is mostly psychogenic or physiological. I am sure each one of us can relate an incident whereby the end result would have appeared to be impossible. Scientifically, there is no way to measure what anyone is physically or mentally capable of enduring or achieving, since most dramatic exercises are done spontaneously (in vivo) rather than being hooked up to cathodes in a clinical situation. We have discussed previously the problems and disappointments of having a tattoo removed. We must now examine a painless way through which the artist can excel without the patron responding as though she/he were confronted by a hungry bear. Procedures are performed in the absence of pain and in certain cultures are likened unto religious rituals. First there is a topical anesthetic known as EMLA which is a eutectic mixture of local anesthetics that can diffuses a relatively impervious barrier, such as intact skin. The latency period is about one hour before work can be started. This is probably not your first choice since onset of numbness is rather lengthy. However it may be considered as an adjunct to speed the onset of anesthesia as well as make the administration of local anesthesia into the skin more comfortable for the patron. With this in mind, an alternative that is worth considering is techniques that do not involve the administration of a drug. It is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation which is the acronym for TENS. These machines can be purchased relatively inexpensive, but some professional advice may pay off in dividends. At a low frequency setting of 2 Hz, the TENS will produce measureable changes in blood levels of serotonin, and beta endorphins. By contrast, serotonin levels in the blood increase in time. Beta endorphins are potent analgesics produced by the body in response to certain stimulation© Hughes J, SmithTW, Kosterlitz HW. (Identification of two related pentapeptides with some opiate agonist activity. Ref: Dr. Stan Malamed. They work well on most muscles and soft tissue or in the lower back. Caution is advised if you are not familiar with this technology and could cause severe discomfort to the patron. Instructions for proper placements and settings of the cathodes for maximum efficacy together with a didactic course are highly recommended. As more studios move towards the painless methods, will take the art of tattooing to a higher level and the attraction of new clients, resulting in an expansion of the tattoo and vanity market. Centbucridine a quinolone is an alternative to lidocaine. Considerable research has been conducted into this agent and published mostly in Indian journals where henna tattoos are popular. Permanent deposition of dyes is undoubtedly seated in India and other South Asian countries. Referenced by Dr. Stan Malamed.To avoid excessive bleeding an anesthetic with a vasoconstrictor is advised. Winching from the patron can be disturbing and distracts from the perfection of the artistic project which in many cultures is religious and peaceful. Local anesthetics can be sourced if your studio has the need and certified personnel to administer painless Parenteral injections. Training can be arranged through your local association or college. We can assist in this area of referrals. Our site www.anestheticnews.com we strive to fill a void that has never been addressed...namely a closer relationship with your pharmacist. M.Sc. PharmD. CCPE. E-Mail: at localanesthetics@yahoo.ca
Related Articles -
tattoo, local anesthetic, painfree, training, art, emla, henna,
|
