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Selected AbstractsImproving the dissolution and oral bioavailability of the poorly water-soluble drug aloe-emodin by solid dispersion with polyethylene glycol 6000DRUG DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH, Issue 5 2009Hao-gang Duan Abstract Solid dispersions (SDs) of aloe-emodin (AE) and polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG6000) with different drug loadings were prepared, characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and evaluated for solubility and in vitro release. The oral bioavailability of AE from SD in rats was compared with the crystalline drug. Plasma concentrations of AE were determined by HPLC. After administration of crystalline AE (35,mg·kg,1) in rats, the AUC0-600 and Cmax were 393.6±77.1,mg·min·l,1 and 1.87±0.30,mg·l,1, respectively. For the PEG6000 SD of AE, AUC0-600 and Cmax were boosted to 1310.5±111.9,mg·min·l,1 and 5.86±0.47,mg·l,1, respectively. The results indicated that the oral bioavailability of AE was increased significantly. Simultaneously, the Tmax value of AE for AE crystalline was decreased from 75.6±17.3,min to 44.8±14.8,min for SD. The earlier Tmax for AE from SD indicated the higher extent of absorption for SD due to their improved dissolution rate in rat intestine. This SD approach can therefore be used to enhanced dissolution and bioavailability for poorly water-soluble drugs. Drug Dev Res, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Efficacy of bupivacaine-neostigmine and bupivacaine-tramadol in caudal block in pediatric inguinal herniorrhaphyPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 9 2010REZA TAHERI MD Summary Background:, Limited duration of analgesia is among the limitations of single caudal injection with local anesthetics. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of bupivacaine in combination with either neostigmine or tramadol for caudal block in children undergoing inguinal herniorrhaphy. Methods:, In a double-blinded randomized trial, sixty children undergoing inguinal herniorrhaphy were enrolled to receive a caudal block with either 0.25% bupivacaine (1 ml·kg,1) with neostigmine (2 ,g·kg,1) (group BN) or tramadol (1 mg·kg,1) (group BT). Hemodynamic variables, pain and sedation scores, additional analgesic requirements, and side effects were compared between two groups. Results:, Duration of analgesia was longer in group BT (17.30 ± 8.24 h) compared with group BN (13.98 ± 10.03 h) (P = 0.03). Total consumption of rescue analgesic was significantly lower in group BT compared with group BN (P = 0.04). There were no significant differences in heart rate, mean arterial pressure, and oxygen saturation between groups. Adverse effects excluding the vomiting were not observed in any patients. Conclusion:, In conclusion, tramadol (1 mg·kg,1) compared with neostigmine (2 ,g·kg,1) might provide both prolonged duration of analgesia and extended time to first analgesic in caudal block. [source] Midazolam as a sole sedative for computed tomography imaging in pediatric patientsPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 9 2009RANJU SINGH MD Summary Objective:, To evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects of i.v. midazolam as a sole agent for sedation in children for computed tomography (CT) imaging. Materials and Methods:, Prospective clinical trial in which 516 children under ASA classification II,IV (273 boys and 243 girls) in the age group of 6 months to 6 years for elective CT scan were enrolled over a 17-month period. Patients were administered i.v. midazolam 0.2 mg·kg,1 and further boluses of 0.1 mg·kg,1 (total 0.5 mg·kg,1) if required. Measurements included induction time, efficacy, side effects, complications, and degree of sedation. Sedation was graded on the basis of Ramsay sedation score (RSS) as over sedated (RSS 5,6), adequately sedated (AS, RSS 3,4), under sedated (RSS 1,2), or failed if the procedure could not be completed or another agent had to be administered. Results:, Of the 516 procedures, 483 brains, 16 chests, and 17 abdomens were scanned with a mean duration of 4.75 ± 1.75 min with a mean dose of 0.212 mg·kg,1 of i.v. midazolam. Four hundred and sixty-five (90.12%) patients were AS in 5.9 ± 0.7 min while 40 (7.75%) patients required additional boluses. Of these 40 patients, 24 (4.65%) required a single bolus, 12 (2.32%) required two boluses, whereas the remaining four (0.78%) required three boluses. In 11 (2.13%; P < 0.0001) patients, the scan could not be completed satisfactorily. Side effects were seen in 46 (9.11%) patients in the form of desaturation, hiccups (seven patients, 1.38%), and agitation (four patients, 0.79%). Desaturation (SpO2 90,95%) was seen in 35 (6.93%) patients, which was corrected by topical application of oxygen. None of the patients exhibited any complications such as pulmonary aspiration or need to maintain airway. The patients were kept under observation for 1 h after the procedure. Conclusion:, The level of sedation achieved in children with midazolam 0.2 mg·kg,1 is adequate for imaging with minimal side effects, no airway complications, and fast recovery. It can be recommended as the sole agent for sedation in pediatric patients for CT imaging. [source] Intranasal flumazenil and naloxone to reverse over-sedation in a child undergoing dental restorationsPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 8 2009CHRISTOPHER HEARD MD Summary We describe a 3-year-old child who became over-sedated after receiving intranasal (IN) midazolam (0.53 mg·kg,1) and IN sufentanil (1 mcg·kg,1) for dental restorations in the dental office. Desaturation was attributed to laryngospasm, which was managed with positive pressure ventilation and oxygen. The sedation was reversed with a combination of IN flumazenil and naloxone. [source] Continuous incisional infusion of local anesthetic in pediatric patients following open heart surgeryPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 6 2009CHRISTOPHER F. TIROTTA MD MBA Summary Aim:, To determine the efficacy and safety of a continuous subcutaneous local anesthetic (LA) infusion in pediatric patients following open heart surgery. Background:, The use of a continuous LA infusion has been shown to be beneficial following adult cardiac surgery. To date there are no studies in the pediatric population. Methods/Materials:, Using a prospective, randomized, and double blind design, we compared LA, either 0.25% levobupivacaine or bupivacaine (Treatment Group) to saline (Placebo Group) delivered subcutaneously via a continuous infusion for 72 h after open heart surgery in 72 patients. Requirements for postoperative analgesics and pain scores were recorded for 72 h and plasma levels of local anesthetic were measured. Secondary outcomes measures included time to first oral intake, time to first bowel movement, time to urinary catheter removal, length of stay, requirements for antiemetics and additional sedation. Results:, Total morphine requirements over the first 24 h were less in the Treatment Group than the Placebo Group (0.05 mg·kg,1 vs 0.2 mg·kg,1, P = 0.007); this was true for all patient groups except those patients weighing less than 6.3 kg. The number of patients requiring no morphine was greater in the Treatment Group (7/35 vs 1/37, P = 0.02). The Treatment Group also received less midazolam, lorazepam, and ketorolac than the Placebo Group over 72 h due to the reduced clinical need for these agents in patients weighing less than 31 kg. There were no differences in secondary outcomes. Conclusions:, A continuous incisional infusion of LA reduced postoperative analgesic requirement and sedative use in pediatric patients undergoing a median sternotomy incision. Dosed at a maximum rate of 0.4 mg·kg,1·h,1, a continuous incisional infusion of LA is effective and safe for up to 72 h, with plasma levels of local anesthetic well below the toxic threshold. [source] Clowns for the prevention of preoperative anxiety in children: a randomized controlled trialPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 3 2009G. GOLAN PhD Summary Objective:, To determine if specially trained professional clowns allayed preoperative anxiety and resulted in a smooth anesthetic induction compared to the use of midazolam or no intervention. Methods:, This was a randomized, controlled, and blinded study conducted with children 3,8 years of age undergoing general anesthesia and elective outpatient surgery. Patients were assigned to one of three groups: Group 1 did not receive midazolam or clown presence; group 2 received 0.5 mg·kg,1 oral midazolam 30 min before surgery up to a maximum of 15 mg; and group 3 had two specially trained clowns present upon arrival to the preoperative holding area and throughout operating room (OR) entrance and mask application for inhalation induction of anesthesia. The children were videotaped for later grading. Results:, The clown group had a statistically significant lower modified-Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale score in the preoperative holding area compared to the control and midazolam group. The clowns' effect on anxiety reduction continued when the children entered the OR but was equal at this point to the midazolam group. Upon application of the anesthesia mask no significant differences were detected between the groups. Conclusions:, This study found that the use of preoperative medically trained clowns for children undergoing surgery can significantly alleviate preoperative anxiety. However, clowns do not have any effect once the anesthesia mask is introduced. [source] A left paraglossal approach for oral intubation in children scheduled for bilateral orofacial cleft reconstruction surgery , a prospective observational studyPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 2 2009INDU SEN MD Summary Background:, Children with orofacial cleft defects are expected to have difficult airways. Conventional midline laryngoscopic approach of oral intubation can lead to iatrogenic tissue trauma. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of left paraglossal laryngoscopy as a primary technique for airway management in these children. Methods:, After institutional ethical committee approval and informed consent, we enrolled 21 children with uncorrected bilateral lip and palate deformities (BL CL/P). Anesthesia was induced with halothane (0.5,4%) in 100% oxygen. After obtaining intravenous access, fentanyl 1.5 ,g·kg,1 and atracurium 0.5 mg·kg,1 were administered. Endotracheal intubation was performed with Miller's straight blade laryngoscope, introduced using left paraglossal approach. Difficulty of intubation was scored according to modified Intubation Difficulty Scale. Results:, Data consists of 21 children (15 males and six females), mean age 1.31 ± 1.18 years and weight 9.27 ± 2.57 kg. Laryngoscopic view obtained was CL II (7[33.3%]) and CL I (14[66.6%]) respectively (Figure 1). All the children could be easily intubated using left paraglossal approach, only 2/3 of them needed optimal external laryngeal manipulation to help achieving it. Though intubation could be done in the first attempt in 19 children, two infants (9½ and 11 months) required one size smaller endotracheal tube and were intubated in the second attempt using left paraglossal approach. Perioperative course was uneventful in all the children. Figure 1. ,Distribution of Intubation Difficulty scale (IDS) Score in BL CL/P patients. n (%) IDS: 0 (intubation without difficulty), IDS: 1 (slight difficulty; OELM applied/additional intubation attempt), IDS: >5 (Moderate to Major difficulty), IDS: = , (Impossible intubation). Conclusion:, Keeping in mind midline tissue support loss in cleft deformities, we propose routine use of left paraglossal laryngoscopic approach for intubating children with uncorrected BL CL/P anomalies. [source] Subhypnotic propofol infusion plus dexamethasone is more effective than dexamethasone alone for the prevention of vomiting in children after tonsillectomyPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 9 2008ALI FUAT ERDEM MD Summary Background:, Postoperative vomiting (POV) is a common complication after tonsillectomy. Dexamethasone is known to decrease postsurgical vomiting. In this study, we compared the effects of dexamethasone alone to dexamethasone plus propofol on postoperative vomiting in children undergoing tonsillectomy. Methods:, In a randomized double-blinded study, we evaluated 80 healthy children, aged 4,12 years, who underwent tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy. After anesthesia was induced by inhalation of sevoflurane, 0.15 mg·kg,1 dexamethasone and 2 ,g·kg,1 fentanyl was administered i.v. to all patients. The patients in the dexamethasone plus propofol group received 1 mg·kg,1 propofol before intubation and continuously after intubation at a rate of 20 ,g·kg,1·min,1 until the surgery was completed. Data for postoperative vomiting were grouped into the following time periods: 0,4 and 4,24 h. Data were analyzed using a Student's t -test and chi-squared analysis. Results:, The percentage of patients exhibiting a complete response (defined as no retching or vomiting for 24 h) increased from 37.5% in the dexamethasone-alone group to 75% in the dexamethasone plus propofol group (P = 0.001). Twenty-two patients (55%) in the dexamethasone-alone and nine patients (22.5%) in the dexamethasone plus propofol groups experienced vomited during 0,4 h (P = 0.003). Eight patients in the dexamethasone-alone group and three patients in the dexamethasone plus propofol group received ondansetron as a rescue antiemetic during the postoperative period. Conclusion:, For children undergoing tonsillectomy, intraoperative subhypnotic propofol infusion combined with dexamethasone treatment provides a better prophylaxis against postoperative vomiting than does dexamethasone alone. [source] Pharmacokinetics and analgesic effects of intravenous propacetamol vs rectal paracetamol in children after major craniofacial surgeryPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 7 2008SANDRA A. PRINS MD PhD Summary Background:, The pharmacokinetics and analgesic effects of intravenous and rectal paracetamol were compared in nonventilated infants after craniofacial surgery in a double-blind placebo controlled study. Methods:, During surgery all infants (6 months,2 years) received a rectal loading dose of 40 mg·kg,1 paracetamol 2 h before anticipated extubation. On admittance to the pediatric surgical ICU, the children were randomized to receive either a 15 min intravenous infusion of 40 mg·kg,1 propacetamol, a prodrug of paracetamol, or 20 mg·kg,1 paracetamol rectally every 6 h. A population pharmacokinetic analysis of the paracetamol plasma concentration time-profiles was undertaken using nonlinear mixed effects models. The visual analogue scale (VAS) (score 0,10 cm) and COMFORT Behavior scale (score 6,30) were used to monitor analgesia in the 24-h period following surgery. Results:, Twelve infants received intravenous propacetamol and 14 paracetamol suppositories. Paracetamol pharmacokinetics were described according to a two-compartmental model with linear disposition. Pharmacokinetic parameters were standardized to a 70 kg person using allometric ,1/4 power' models. Parameter estimates were: absorption half-life from the rectum 4.6 h, propacetamol hydrolysis half-life 0.028 h, clearance 12 l·h,1·70 kg,1, intercompartmental clearance 116 l·h,1·70 kg,1, central and peripheral volume of distribution 7.9 and 44 l·70 kg,1, respectively. During the 24-h study period 22 infants exhibited VAS scores <4 cm, which was considered a cutoff point. On single occasions four patients, two in each group, exhibited a VAS score ,4 cm. Nine patients in the rectal treatment group and three patients in the intravenous treatment group received midazolam for COMFORT-B scores exceeding 17 (P < 0.05). Conclusions:, Intravenous propacetamol proved to be more effective than rectal paracetamol in infants after craniofacial surgery. Midazolam was more frequently administered to patients receiving paracetamol suppositories, indicating that these children experienced more distress, possibly caused by pain. [source] Premedication with melatonin vs midazolam in anxious childrenPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 7 2008BERRIN ISIK MD Summary Aim:, Failure of dental treatment caused by anxiety is a common problem in children. Oral midazolam has been the most commonly used premedication for pediatric patient but the use of midazolam may be associated with paradoxical reactions in children. Melatonin may induce a natural sleepiness and improve sedation. We have investigated premedication with melatonin compared with midazolam in children under nitrous oxide/oxygen (N2O/O2) sedation for dental treatment. Methods:, In a randomized study, 60 children received either 3 mg of melatonin [Melatonina (3 mg®) 60 min before the procedure (n = 15); group I], 0.5 mg·kg,1 melatonin 60 min before the procedure (n = 15; group II), 0.75 mg·kg,1 midazolam [Dormicum (15 mg/3 ml ®) 15 min before the procedure (n = 15); group III] or 3 ml of 0.09 NaCl 15 min (n = 7) or 60 min before the procedure (n = 8; group IV) orally. The children were sedated with 40/60% N2O/O2 inhalation. The heart rate and O2 saturation were monitored during the treatment period. The level of sedation was assessed according to the Ramsay Sedation Scale. The children's sedation success during dental treatment was classified. The sedation success and other sedation-related events recorded. Comparisons among the four groups were made using one-way anova or Kruskal,Wallis test, and if any significant differences were noted, the Tukey's HSD or Mann,Whitney U -test were used for intergroup comparisons. All differences were considered significant at P < 0.05. Results:, The evaluation of sedation success was as follows: group I: satisfactory (n = 1), average satisfactory (n = 4), and unsatisfactory (n = 10); group II: satisfactory (n = 2), average satisfactory (n = 3), and unsatisfactory (n = 10); group III: satisfactory (n = 9), average satisfactory (n = 6); and group IV: satisfactory (n = 1), average satisfactory (n = 3), and unsatisfactory (n = 11). Conclusion:, In these doses and clinical conditions, melatonin was similar to that of placebo and did not contribute to N2O/O2 sedation of anxious children. [source] Severe labetalol overdose in an 8-month-old infantPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 5 2008ADALBJÖRN THORSTEINSSON MD Summary We report a case of a large labetalol overdose in an eight-month-old infant that was being treated for hypertension following surgery for coarctation of the aorta. Labetalol, both alpha and beta adrenergic blocking agent was used for treating postoperative hypertension. By mistake, the patient was given an extremely high dose of labetalol intravenously (17.2 mg·kg,1). Remarkably, the medication error had a surprisingly limited clinical effect on the infant who survived the incident. We discuss the pharmacokinetic, pharmocodynamic and possible explanations for this fortunate turn of events. [source] Reversal of rocuronium-induced neuromuscular blockade by pyridostigmine in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophyPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 3 2008TINO MUENSTER MD Summary Background:, The aim of this study was to investigate the effect and safety of pyridostigmine for the reversal of a neuromuscular block (NMB) in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). In patients with DMD recovery from a rocuronium-induced NMB is markedly delayed. Methods:, Fourteen DMD patients (aged between 11 and 19 years) scheduled for elective scoliosis repair were studied. Following tracheal intubation without muscle relaxant, all patients received a single dose of rocuronium 0.6 mg·kg,1. NMB was monitored by acceleromyography at the adductor pollicis muscle. When the first twitch height (T1) of the train-of-four (TOF) had recovered to 25% seven patients received either pyridostigmine 0.1 mg·kg,1 (the anticholinergic drug with a long duration of action) or saline in a blinded manner. The times to attain TOF ratio of 0.9 were recorded. For comparison the Mann,Whitney U -test was used. Results:, Recovery to TOF ratio of 0.9 was significantly (P < 0.05) accelerated by pyridostigmine [84 (median), 57,141(range)] compared with controls (148, 84,243 min). The recovery time (time between T1 of 25% and TOF of 90%) was also significantly (P < 0.01) shortened by pyridostigmine (15, 8,49 vs 76, 43,144 min, respectively). Time to recovery of T1 to 90% was not different between the groups (108, 63,134 vs 169. 61,208 min, respectively). Conclusions:, Pyridostigmine 0.1 mg·kg,1 effectively reversed a rocuronium-induced NMB in DMD patients. [source] Propofol,ketamine vs propofol,fentanyl combinations for deep sedation and analgesia in pediatric patients undergoing burn dressing changes,PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 1 2008ZEYNEP TOSUN MD Summary Background:, The aim of this study was to compare propofol,ketamine (PK) and propofol,fentanyl (PF) combinations for deep sedation and analgesia in pediatric burn wound dressing changes. Methods:, Thirty-two ASA physical status II and III inpatients with a second degree total burn surface area ranging from 5% to 25% were studied in a randomized, double blind fashion. Heart rate, systolic arterial pressure, peripheral oxygen saturation, respiratory rate and Ramsey sedation scores of all patients were recorded perioperatively. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either PK or PF: PK group (n = 17) received 1 mg·kg,1 ketamine + 1.2 mg·kg,1 propofol, and PF group (n = 15) received 1 ,g·kg,1 fentanyl + 1.2 mg·kg,1 propofol for induction. Additional propofol (0.5,1 mg·kg,1) was administered when the patients showed discomfort in both groups. If the patient showed discomfort and/or increase in heart rate or systolic arterial pressure, despite additional propofol dose, additional bolus of 0.5,1 mg·kg,1 ketamine or 0.5,1 ,g·kg,1 fentanyl was administered. Results:, There were no significant differences in heart rate, systolic arterial pressure, peripheral oxygen saturation, respiratory rate and sedation scores during the procedure between the groups. Restlessness during the procedure was seen in seven (47%) patients in Group PF and one (5.9%) patient in Group PK (P = 0.013). Conclusions:, Both propofol,ketamine and propofol,fentanyl combinations provided effective sedation and analgesia during dressing changes in pediatric burn patients. But propofol,ketamine combination was superior to propofol,fentanyl combination because of more restlessness in patients given propofol,fentanyl. [source] Sedation with ketamine and low-dose midazolam for short-term procedures requiring pharyngeal manipulation in young childrenPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 1 2008HELENA NOVAK MD Summary Background:, Pediatric intestinal biopsy procedures including considerable transpharyngeal manipulation of a wire-guided metal capsule require adequate sedation or anesthesia. This retrospective cohort study was designed to evaluate intravenous sedation with ketamine and low-dose midazolam in young children undergoing these procedures before and also after discharge from the hospital. Methods:, A total of 244 biopsy procedures in 217 children under the age of 16 years were evaluated. All anesthesia records were reviewed according to a defined study protocol and in 145 cases the parents were also interviewed by telephone to obtain further information on possible adverse effects before and after discharge. Results:, Ketamine and low-dose midazolam were carefully titrated by an experienced anesthesia team at an approximate dose ratio of 40 : 1 (total doses 2.3 and 0.05 mg·kg,1) in continuously monitored spontaneously breathing children. Possibly associated problems before discharge were salivation (5.7%), vomiting (4.9%), oxygen desaturation (3.3%), laryngospasm (2.5%) and rash (1.2%) according to the patient records and blurred vision (27%), nausea and vomiting (19%), vertigo (13%) and hallucinations or nightmares (3.5%) according to telephone interviews. Few, mild and transient problems remained after discharge from the hospital. Conclusions:, Careful titration of ketamine and low-dose midazolam provides adequate sedation for nonsurgical pediatric short-term procedures also requiring considerable pharyngeal manipulation, particularly considering the low number of serious airway problems such as laryngospasm. The high incidence of late postoperative problems suggests that prospective studies should be designed for long-term follow-up of young children subjected to sedation or anesthesia. [source] Sequential clot strength analyses following diclofenac in pediatric adenotonsillectomyPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 11 2007MAIREAD HEANEY FCARCSI FJFICM Summary Background:, Tonsillectomy is a common pediatric surgical procedure resulting in significant postoperative pain. There is ongoing controversy as to the most satisfactory analgesic regimen. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are an alternative to opioids in this setting. NSAID use in tonsillectomy has been shown to be opioid sparing in the recovery period and to have similar analgesic effects to opioids in pediatric patients. Because of their nonspecific action on the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase there is potential for increased bleeding which has led many practitioners to avoid NSAIDs completely in this patient population potentially resulting in suboptimal pain control. Our aim in this study was to assess the effect of preoperatively administered diclofenac on the blood clot strength in children undergoing (adeno-) tonsillectomy. Methods:, Twenty patients undergoing (adeno-) tonsillectomy were recruited into this prospective observational study. All patients received 2 mg·kg,1 of diclofenac rectally immediately preoperatively. Blood was taken for thromboelastograph analysis pre-diclofenac and 1 and 4 h post-diclofenac administration. Results:, There was a statistically significant increase in maximal clot strength (MA) at 1 and 4 h after diclofenac. Similarly there was a statistically significant reduction in time to initial fibrin formation (R time) post-diclofenac. There was no primary or secondary hemorrhage. Conclusions:, Diclofenac when given preoperatively does not adversely affect clot strength in the immediate postoperative period when the risk of primary hemorrhage is greatest. [source] Current United Kingdom sedation practice in pediatric intensive carePEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 7 2007IAN A. JENKINS FRCPE FRCA Summary Background:, The aim of this study was to investigate the current practice of sedation, analgesia, and neuromuscular blockade in critically ill children on pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in the UK and identify areas that merit further study. Methods:, Data were gathered in a prospective observational study of 338 critically ill children in 20 UK PICUs. Results:, There is considerable variation in clinical practice. A total of 24 different sedative and analgesic agents were used during the study. The most commonly used sedative and analgesic agents were midazolam and morphine. Four different neuromuscular blockers (NMBs) were used, most commonly vecuronium. There were differences in treatment between cardiac and noncardiac children, but there were a greater number of infants and neonates in the cardiac group. NMBs were used in 30% of mechanically ventilated patients. Withdrawal symptoms were reported in 13% of ventilated patients, relatively early in their stay; weaning sedative agents (,tapering') was apparently of no benefit. The use of clonidine in this setting was noted. Physical restraints were used in 7.4%. Propofol was used but in only 2.6% of patients, all over the age of 4 years, and not exceeding 2 mg·kg,1·h,1. No side effects attributable to ,propofol syndrome' were noted. Conclusions:, There is considerable heterogeneity of sedation techniques. NMBs are used in a large portion of this population. Withdrawal symptoms were associated with higher doses of sedation and greater lengths of stay and were not ameliorated by withdrawing sedation gradually (,tapering'). [source] Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in infants.PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 5 2007A survey of members of the Association of Paediatric Anaesthetists of Great Britain, Ireland Summary Background:, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used as perioperative analgesics. Many are currently used off label. Diclofenac is currently licensed for use in children over 1 year of age for the treatment of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, while ibuprofen is licensed for use in children weighing over 7 kg. The dose and interval in children is currently extrapolated from adult studies, as the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) data are lacking in infants. Methods:, A postal questionnaire was sent to members of the Association of Paediatric Anaesthetist of Great Britain and Ireland seeking to clarify members' prescribing patterns of NSAIDs, especially in infants. Information regarding the choice of NSAIDS, route of administration, lower age limit, dose interval, dose and practice in two specific perioperative contexts (adenotonsillectomy and open heart surgery) was sought. Results:, The response rate was 80%. NSAIDs are used by 86% of responders in infants. Diclofenac is most commonly used intraoperatively (78%); while ibuprofen (73%) was used more frequently postoperatively. NSAIDs are used by 21% of respondents in ICU. Commonest routes of administration were oral (81%) and rectal (80%), rarely intravenously (9%). The commonest dose for diclofena is 1 mg·kg,1 (59%); the dosing schedule employed being 8 hourly in 53% of cases. NSAIDs are used by 57% of responders as part of their analgesic regime for adenotonsillectomies. Conclusion:, Members of the Association of Paediatric Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland commonly prescribe NSAIDs in infants. This is despite the dearth of PK and PD data in this age group. [source] Early administration of surfactant in spontaneous breathing with nCPAP: feasibility and outcome in extremely premature infants (postmenstrual age ,27 weeks)PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 4 2007ANGELA KRIBS MD Summary Background:, Spontaneous breathing supported by nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) is thought to have some advantages compared with mechanical ventilation in extremely premature infants. In addition, early or prophylactic surfactant administration has been shown to be superior to delayed use. A strategy to combine these two principles was tested in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The aim of this feasibility study was to describe the procedure and compare short-term results with a historical control. Methods:, The study took place in a level III NICU. In the observational period all extremely premature infants with clinical signs of moderate to severe respiratory distress syndrome despite nCPAP received 100 mg·kg,1 of a natural surfactant preparation via an intratracheal catheter during spontaneous breathing. In the historical control period those infants were intubated and ventilated to receive surfactant. Results:, Twenty-nine of 42 infants fulfilled the criteria and were treated with the new approach. In five cases ventilation with manual bag was necessary after administration of surfactant but all infants could be retransferred to nCPAP within a few minutes. Ten infants were intubated later during the first 3 days. Mortality was 7% in the group of infants treated in this way and 12% in all infants treated during the observational period. Mortality was 35% in the historical control period. Morbidity was within ranges reported by other authors. Conclusions:, Surfactant administration during nCPAP is feasible. First results indicate that early complications are rare. This warrants a prospective randomized trial. [source] The efficacy of intravenous or peritonsillar infiltration of ketamine for postoperative pain relief in children following adenotonsillectomy,PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 3 2007DIDEM DAL MD Summary Background :,A few previous studies have suggested the efficacy of i.v. ketamine for postoperative pain relief in children after adenotonsillectomy, but none has investigated the efficacy of peritonsillar infiltration of ketamine in these children. Methods :,This randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluated the effects of peritonsillar infiltration of ketamine in children undergoing adenotonsillectomy. Ninety ASA I-II children were randomized three groups of 30 each. Group I received: 2 ml i.v. saline, group II received i.v. ketamine (0.5 mg·kg,1) and group III received a local peritonsillar infiltration of ketamine (0.5 mg·kg,1). All medications were 2 ml in volume which was applied 1 ml per tonsil 3 min prior to tonsillectomy. Modified Hannallah pain scale [observational pain scores (OPS)], nausea, vomiting, bleeding, rescue analgesia, sedation and Aldrete scores were recorded at first, 15th, 30th and 60th min postoperatively. Patients were interviewed on the day after surgery to assess the postoperative pain, nightmares, hallucinations, vomiting and bleeding. Results :,Group I had higher OPS scores than group II and group III. Group II and group III had comparable scores, which were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Group II had higher sedation score at 15th min (P = 0.015). Thirty-two children, 19 of whom were in group I had rescue analgesia in postanesthesia care unit (P < 0.05) and the time to first analgesic requirement was significantly shorter in group I than the other groups (P = 0.006). Group II and group III also had less pain than group I at home (P = 0.023). Conclusions :,Low dose ketamine given i.v. or by peritonsillar infiltration perioperatively provides efficient pain relief without side-effects in children undergoing adenotonsillectomy. [source] Effect of an intravenous single dose of ketamine on postoperative pain in tonsillectomy patientsPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 9 2006MARIO JOSE DA CONCEIÇÃO MSC MD TSA Summary Background:, Tonsillectomy has a high incidence of postoperative pain. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the use of low-dose IV ketamine, before the start of surgery or after the end of the operation, would lead to significantly improved pain control after tonsillectomy in pediatric patients. Methods:, Ninety children, 5,7 years old, scheduled for elective tonsillectomy were randomly assigned to one of three groups of 30 patients each; groups I, II and III. Patients in group I received no ketamine. Patients in group II received 0.5 mg·kg,1 of ketamine before the surgical start and for group III the same dose was given after the operation ended. Postoperative pain was scored by the Oucher scale. Systolic and diastolic pressures and heart rate were recorded perioperatively. Unwanted side effects were recorded by the ward staff personnel on a 24-h study-specific questionnaire. Statistical tests consisted of Student's t -test, chi-square and anova as appropriated. Results:, The number of patients complaining of pain was greater in group I compared with patients in groups II and III with a significative statistical difference (P < 0.05). The degree of postoperative pain was significantly higher in patients of group I compared with groups II and III (P < 0.05). Eight patients in group I needed rescue doses of morphine, three for group II and none for group III. In group I, three of eight patients required two doses of morphine during the first 249h postoperatively. No unwanted side effects were noted. Conclusions:, The use of a single small dose of ketamine in a pediatric population undergoing tonsillectomy could reduce the frequency or even avoid the use of rescue analgesia in the postoperative period independent of whether used before or after the surgical procedure. [source] Tramadol for pain relief in children undergoing herniotomy: a comparison with ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric blocksPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 1 2006MOHAMMAD BAGHER KHOSRAVI MD Summary Background:, Prevention of postoperative pain in children is one of the most important objectives of the anesthesiologist. Preoperative ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve blocks have been widely used to provide analgesia in children undergoing herniorrhaphy. Tramadol is an analgesic with micro-opioid and nonopioid activity. In this study we compared the usage of intravenous tramadol with ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve blocks for control of postherniorrhaphy pain in children aged 2,7 years. Methods:, Sixty patients were randomly allocated to two groups of thirty. One group received tramadol 1.5 mg·kg,1 i.v. before induction of general anesthesia and the other had an ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block with 0.5% bupivacaine (0.25 ml·kg,1) before skin incision. We assessed pain using the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale and the Categorical Pain Scale. Results:, At 1, 4 and 24 h after surgery the two groups had identical pain scores. At 2 and 3 h after surgery the tramadol group experienced significantly less pain (P < 0.05). The rescue drug for residual pain, was used equally in the two groups. None of the 60 patients had respiratory depression but the tramadol group patients were found to have more episodes of nausea and vomiting (P < 0.05). Conclusions:, We concluded that tramadol can have at least the same analgesic effect as that of ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve blocks for postherniorrhaphy pain in children, with even a superior effect at the time of maximal analgesia. We also highlight the troublesome side-effect of nausea and vomiting which brings into question the benefits of using this opioid that seems to lack respiratory depression. [source] The efficacy of a subhypnotic dose of propofol in preventing laryngospasm following tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy in childrenPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 12 2005YATINDRA KUMAR BATRA MD MNAMS Summary Background:, Laryngospasm is a well-known problem typically occurring immediately following tracheal extubation. Propofol is known to inhibit airway reflexes. In this study, we sought to assess whether the empiric use of a subhypnotic dose of propofol prior to emergence will decrease the occurrence of laryngospasm following extubation in children. Methods:, After approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee and informed parental consent, we enrolled 120 children ASA physical status I and II, aged 3,14 years who were scheduled to undergo elective tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy under standard general anesthesia. Before extubation, the patients were randomized and received in a blinded fashion either propofol 0.5 mg·kg,1 or saline (control) intravenously. Tracheal extubation was performed 60 s after administration of study drug, when the child was breathing regularly and reacting to the tracheal tube. Results:, Laryngospasm was seen in 20% (n = 12) of the 60 children in the control group and in only 6.6% (n = 4) of 60 children in the propofol group (P < 0.05). Conclusions:, During emergence from inhalational anesthesia, propofol in a subhypnotic dose (0.5 mg·kg,1) decreases the likelihood of laryngospasm upon tracheal extubation in children undergoing tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy. [source] Which may be effective to reduce blood loss after cardiac operations in cyanotic children: tranexamic acid, aprotinin or a combination?PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 1 2005FÜSUN S. BULUTCU MD Summary Background:, Children with cyanotic heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery in which cardiopulmonary bypass is used are at increased risk of postoperative bleeding. In this study, the authors investigated the possibility of reducing postoperative blood loss by using aprotinin and tranexamic acid alone or a combination of these two agents. Methods:, In a prospective, randomized, blind study, 100 children undergoing cardiac surgery were investigated. In group 1 (n = 25) patients acted as the control and did not receive either study drugs. In group 2 (n = 25) patients received aprotinin (30.000 KIU·kg,1 after induction of anesthesia, 30.000 KIU·kg,1 in the pump prime and 30.000 KIU·kg,1 after weaning from bypass). In group 3 (n = 25) patients received tranexamic acid (100 mg·kg,1 after induction of anesthesia, 100 mg·kg,1 in the pump prime and 100 mg·kg,1 after weaning from bypass). In group 4 (n = 25) patients received a combination of the two agents in the same manner. Total blood loss and transfusion requirements during the period from protamine administration until 24 h after admission to the intensive care unit were recorded. In addition, hemoglobin, platelet counts and coagulation studies were recorded. Results:, Postoperative blood loss was significantly higher in the control group (group 1) compared with children in other groups who were treated with aprotinin, tranexamic acid or a combination of the two agents (groups 2, 3 and 4) during the first 24 h after admission to cardiac intensive care unit (40 ± 18 ml·kg,1·24 h,1, aprotinin; 35 ± 16 ml·kg,1·24 h,1, tranexamic acid; 34 ± 19 ml·kg,1·24 h,1, combination; 35 ± 15 ml·kg,1·24 h,1). The total transfusion requirements were also significantly less in the all treatment groups. Time taken for sternal closure was longer in the control group (68 ± 11 min) compared with treatment groups 2, 3 and 4, respectively (40 ± 18, 42 ± 11, 42 ± 13 min, P < 0.05). The coagulation parameters were not found to be significantly different between the three groups. Conclusions:, Our results suggested that both agents were effective to reduce postoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in patients with cyanotic congenital heart disease. However, the combination of aprotinin and tranexamic acid did not seem more effective than either of the two drugs alone. [source] Pentobarbital vs chloral hydrate for sedation of children undergoing MRI: efficacy and recovery characteristicsPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 7 2004Shobha Malviya MD Summary Background :,Chloral hydrate (CH) sedation for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is associated with significant failure rates, adverse events and delayed recovery. Pentobarbital (PB), reportedly produces successful sedation in 98% of children undergoing diagnostic imaging. This study compared the efficacy, adverse events and recovery characteristics of CH vs PB in children undergoing MRI. Methods :,With Institutional Review Board approval and written consent, children were randomly assigned to receive intravenous (i.v.) PB (maximum 5 mg·kg,1 in incremental doses) or oral CH (75 mg·kg,1) prior to MRI. Sedation was augmented with 0.05 mg·kg,1 doses of i.v. midazolam (maximum 0.1 mg·kg,1) as necessary. Adverse effects, including hypoxaemia, failed sedation, paradoxical reactions and behavioural changes, the return of baseline activity, and parental satisfaction were documented. The quality of MRI scans was evaluated by a radiologist blinded to the sedation technique. Results :,PB facilitated an earlier onset of sedation (P = 0.001), higher sedation scores (P = 0.01), and less need for supplemental midazolam compared with CH. Severe hypoxaemia occurred in two children (6%) in the PB group. Fourteen per cent of the PB group experienced a paradoxical reaction, 9% sedation failure and 11% major motion artefact, compared with 0% (P = 0.05), 3 and 2% (P = NS), respectively, in the CH group. CH and PB were both associated with a high incidence of motor imbalance, and agitation. However, children who received PB had a slower return to baseline activity (P = 0.04). Conclusions :,Although PB facilitated a quicker sedation onset and reduced the requirement for supplemental sedation, it produced a higher incidence of paradoxical reaction and prolonged recovery with a similar failure rate compared with CH. [source] Use of intravenous ketorolac in the neonate and premature babiesPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 6 2004Patrizia Papacci MD Summary Background :,Ketorolac is a powerful nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug widely used for pain control in children and adults. The aim of this study was to evaluate its safety and analgesic efficacy in the neonate. Methods :,Ketorolac was used in a group of 18 spontaneously breathing neonates presenting with chronic lung disease, for the control of postsurgical pain and pain from invasive procedures. Pain scores (Neonatal Infant Pain Scale) were assessed before and after i.v. administration of 1 mg·kg,1 of ketorolac. Results :,Total pain control was achieved in 94.4% of the neonates. None of the neonates had haematological, renal or hepatic changes prior to treatment, and these complications did not occur after treatment. No neonate had systemic haemorrhage or bleeding from injection and blood withdrawal sites. Conclusions :,Ketorolac could represent an efficacious analgesic alternative to opioids, particularly in neonates. It would avoid the side-effects associated with opioid analgesics, especially respiratory depression. [source] Death after re-exposure to propofol in a 3-year-old child: a case reportPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 3 2004Josef Holzki MD Summary This case report discusses the cause of death in a 3-year-old child who survived a high dose (20 mg·kg,1·h,1) of propofol, infused over a period of 15 h, following which the patient developed a combined respiratory and metabolic acidosis, the oxygenation remaining normal. Bronchospasm was assumed to be the cause of hypercapnia. At this time the doctors in charge did not think of a possible side-effect of propofol. The administration of propofol was interrupted, the patient recovered within 13 h from the acidosis, woke up and required further sedation. A supposedly entirely safe infusion of 4 mg·kg,1·h,1 propofol, as recommended in the literature for up to 48 h, was administered. After only 8 h intractable bradycardic dysrhythmias occurred. Although pharmacokinetic studies have pointed to a possible accumulation of propofol during continuous infusions, an interruption of an infusion for several hours has been considered sufficient for practically total clearance of the drug from the body. In this case re-exposure with a recommended dose of propofol was accompanied by bradycardia and dysrythmias that proved to be resistant to therapy and led to fatal cardiac insufficiency with a functioning artificial pacemaker in place. This case raises concerns about the safety of long-term infusions of propofol for sedation in children and possibly also in adults. [source] Comparison of patient-controlled analgesia with and without a background infusion after appendicectomy in childrenPEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 5 2003Karamehmet Yildiz MD Summary Background: There have been many studies using patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) and opioids for postoperative analgesia in children. In this study, we investigated the efficacy, usefulness and analgesic consumption of two different PCA programmes [bolus dose alone (BD) or bolus dose with background infusion (BD + BI)] to evaluate postoperative analgesia for children after emergency appendicectomy. Methods: Forty children, aged between 6 and 15 years and ASA class I or II, undergoing emergency appendicectomy were randomly allocated into two groups. The children were given a loading dose of pethidine 0.3 mg·kg,1 and 150 ,g·kg,1 bolus intravenously in group BD (n = 20) and pethidine 0.3 mg·kg,1 loading dose, 75 ,g·kg,1 bolus and 15 ,g·kg,1·h,1 background infusion in group BD + BI (n = 20). The lockout interval was 20 min in both groups. Results: There were no significant differences in pain, sedation and nausea scores during the 24-h postoperative period between the groups (P > 0.05). Pethidine consumption was significantly lower in group BD + BI than that in group BD for the first 24-h period (P < 0.05). Conclusions: We demonstrated that both these PCA programmes were effective and reliable for postoperative pain relief in children. We believe that giving information about PCA to the children and their parents is useful during the preoperative period. However, the background infusion with lower bolus dose in PCA did not increase pethidine consumption. [source] Tramadol for pain relief in children undergoing tonsillectomy: a comparison with morphinePEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 3 2003Thomas Engelhardt MD SummaryBackground: Pain control for paediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy remains problematic. Tramadol is reported to be an effective analgesic and to have a side-effect profile similar to morphine, but is currently not licensed for paediatric use in the UK. Methods: We conducted a prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial in children who were scheduled for elective tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy at the Royal Aberdeen Children Hospital. Following local ethics committee approval and after obtaining a drug exemption certificate from the Medicines Licensing Agency for an unlicensed drug, we recruited 20 patients each into morphine (0.1 mg·kg,1), tramadol (1 mg·kg,1) and tramadol (2 mg·kg,1) groups. These drugs were given as a single injection following induction of anaesthesia. In addition, all patients received diclofenac (1 mg·kg,1) rectally. The postoperative pain scores, analgesic requirements, sedation scores, signs of respiratory depression and nausea and vomiting, as well as antiemetic requirements, were noted at 4-h intervals until discharge. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in age, weight, type of operation or induction of anaesthesia, 4-h sedation and pain scores and further analgesic requirements. There were no episodes of respiratory depression. Morphine was associated with a significantly higher incidence of vomiting following discharge to the wards (75% versus 40%, P=0.03) compared with both tramadol groups. Conclusions: Tramadol has similar analgesic properties, when compared with morphine. The various pharmaceutical presentations and the availability as a noncontrolled substance may make it a useful addition to paediatric anaesthesia if it becomes licensed for paediatric anaesthesia in the UK. [source] Analgesia for paediatric tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy with intramuscular clonidinePEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 7 2002Katherine O. Freeman MD SummaryBackground: After undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A), children may experience significant pain. Clonidine, an ,2 agonist, exhibits significant analgesic properties. The current investigation sought to determine whether intramuscular (I.M.) clonidine would decrease pain in paediatric patients undergoing T&A. Methods: Thirty-nine children undergoing elective T&A were studied. Following inhalational anaesthetic induction, fentanyl (2 ,g·kg,1) was given intravenously, acetaminophen (paracetamol) (30 mg·kg,1) was given rectally and the children then randomly received an i.m. injection of either normal saline or clonidine (2,g·kg,1). Perioperative analgesic requirements in the postanaesthesia care unit and at home following hospital discharge were evaluated. Results: There were no significant demographic, analgesic consumption, haemodynamic or pain score differences between the groups. Conclusions: We do not recommend adding i.m. clonidine (2 ,g·kg,1) to the analgesic regimen of children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. [source] Analgesia for circumcision in a paediatric population: comparison of caudal bupivacaine alone with bupivacaine plus two doses of clonidinePEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 6 2001P. Sharpe FRCA Background:,Clonidine is often used to improve the duration and quality of analgesia produced by caudal epidural blockade, although the optimum dose of clonidine with bupivacaine remains uncertain. Methods:,We compared the effect of clonidine, 1 and 2 ,g·kg,1, added to bupivacaine (1.25 mg·kg,1) with that of bupivacaine alone in 75 male children undergoing elective circumcision. Results:,There was a trend towards increasing duration of analgesia with increasing dose of clonidine [group B (bupivacaine) 280.7 (171.6) min, C1 (bupivacaine + clonidine 1 ,g·kg,1) 327.8 (188.3) min and C2 (bupivacaine + clonidine 2 ,g·kg,1) 382.0 (200.6) min], although this difference was not statistically significant. Mean time to arousal from anaesthesia was significantly prolonged with clonidine 2 ,g kg,1 (group C2 21.3 (13,36) min, group C1 14.0 (6,25) min and group B 14.4 (2,32) min. Supplementary analgesic requirements and incidence of adverse effects were low, with no differences between the groups. Conclusions:,For paediatric circumcision, under general anaesthesia, the addition of clonidine 2 ,g·kg,1 to low volume (0.5 ml·kg,1) caudal anaesthetics has a limited clinical benefit for children undergoing circumcision. [source] | ||||||||||