Newer nerve blocks in pediatric surgery

Abstract

Purpose of the review: The purpose of this manuscript is to provide a brief discussion of the current direction in pediatric regional anesthesia, highlighting both newer nerve blocks and techniques and traditional nerve blocks.

Recent findings: The number of nerve blocks performed in pediatric patients continues to increase. This growth is likely related in part to the recent focus on perioperative multimodal analgesia, in addition to growing data demonstrating safety and efficacy in this patient population. Multiple studies by the Pediatric Regional Anesthesia Network (PRAN) and the French-Language Society of Pediatric Anesthesiologists (ADARPEF) have demonstrated lack of major complications and general overall safety with pediatric nerve blocks. The growing prevalence of ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia has not only improved the safety profile, but also increased the efficacy of both peripheral nerve blocks and perineural catheters.

Summary: As the push for multimodal analgesia increases and the breadth of pediatric regional anesthesia continues to expand, further large prospective studies will be needed to demonstrate continued efficacy and overall safety.

Keywords: nerve blocks; pediatric; pediatric regional anesthesia; regional anesthesia.