adjective, sourer, sourest. 1. having an acid taste, resembling that of vinegar, lemon juice, etc.; tart. 2. rendered acid or affected by fermentation; fermented. 3. producing the one of the four basic taste sensations that is not bitter, salt, or sweet. 4. characteristic of something fermented: a sour smell.
General anesthetics normally are used to produce loss of consciousness before and during surgery. However, for obstetrics (labor and delivery) or certain minor procedures, an anesthetic may be given in small amounts to relieve anxiety or pain without causing unconsciousness.
Injection of medications similar to lidocaine are used to block the nerves for several hours. This type of anesthesia could be anaxillary block (only the arm is asleep) or a wrist block (only the hand is asleep). The surgery can also be performed by simply injecting lidocaine around the area of the incision.