Sedation and analgesia in the pediatric intensive care unit following laryngotracheal reconstruction

Abstract

Background: Children undergoing laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) may remain electively intubated in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) for several days following surgery to facilitate wound healing. These patients require sedation and analgesia with or without neuromuscular blockade in order to prevent excessive head and neck movement with resultant tension on the tracheal anastomosis. Achieving this level of immobility features in caring for these children.

Aim: The aims of this article are to describe a variety of commonly used sedation and analgesic agents and to provide guidance as to their optimal use following LTR.