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.
The following is a brief discussion of various anesthetic techniques commonly utilized when performing surgery on the hand and wrist. 1  Local anesthesia. 2  Hematoma block. 3  Regional anesthesia (nerve) blocks. 4  General anesthesia is also utilized for many hand surgical procedures.