Is there a place for regional anesthesia in pediatrics?--Yes!

Abstract

Regional anesthesia has a central place in pediatrics. The neonate requires an analgesic, but not one which will produce respiratory depression. The older child undergoing intermediategrade surgery requires the best available analgesia, but without sedation and nausea. Regional techniques fulfil all these requirements. Caudal block is particularly useful and, even when given in large doses, does not give rise to high plasma concentrations. Regional techniques are seen at their best when combined with light general anesthesia. The advantages of both these methods are then available for the benefit of the child, and the value of regional analgesia is further enhanced when supplementary intramuscular or oral analgesia is given regularly at specific times so that pain is prevented rather than relieved.