Surgical Anesthesia in Children

During surgical procedures, anesthesia plays a key role, as it allows interventions to be performed painlessly and without stress. The essence of anesthesia is to partially or completely shut down the patient’s perception, ensuring the smoothness of the surgery. Anesthesia methods include local, regional, and general anesthesia, with the choice among them depending on various factors such as the type and complexity of the procedure.

Surgical anesthesia is important not only for adults but also requires special attention for children, whose anxiety and ability to cooperate often differ from that of adults. When applying different anesthesia methods, specialists take into account the child’s age, the nature of the procedure, and the required level of sedation. Therefore, choosing the appropriate form of anesthesia is essential for successful and safe medical interventions.

Types of Anesthesia

There are three main types of anesthesia procedures: general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, and local anesthesia. General anesthesia, also known as sedation, is the most complex form, during which the patient’s consciousness is completely shut down. This is achieved through intravenous medications or inhalation of anesthetic gases. The anesthesiologist continuously monitors the patient’s vital functions and ensures that the airways remain clear, so the patient does not perceive anything from their environment during the surgery.

In regional anesthesia, anesthetic agents are delivered to nerve bundles close to the area being operated on, so the procedure only affects the target area while sensation in the surrounding parts remains intact. This method can also be supplemented with various nerve blocks.

Local anesthesia is the least invasive solution, where the anesthetic is injected directly into the site of the procedure. This method is often used for minor interventions, such as dermatological procedures, and can also be applied in the form of spray or gel, for example, in the oral cavity.

What Influences the Choice of Anesthesia Type?

The choice of anesthesia is influenced by various factors, including the type of surgery, the child’s age, and health status. Pediatric surgeries can generally be categorized into two main types: major surgeries and minor surgeries. Major surgeries, which involve multiple organs, are often performed under general anesthesia, while smaller interventions may only require regional or local anesthesia.

In the case of children, sedation is often used during surgeries, which can help reduce anxiety and promote calm cooperation with the medical staff. The depth of sedation can vary, from mild anxiety relief to deeper states where the child only responds to painful stimuli. The use of sedation can be particularly important for younger children who may not be able to express their concerns, making it the responsibility of parents and doctors to reassure them.

The Period Before and After Surgery

In the pre-operative period, the anesthesiologist takes a detailed medical history, during which parents must share important information about the child’s health status, allergies, and previous illnesses. Before anesthesia, the child must arrive fasting, and fluid intake should be maintained for as long as possible. Additionally, various medications may be administered to reduce pain and stress.

After the surgery, the child is typically under observation, where they receive pain relief and fluid replacement. Side effects resulting from anesthesia, such as nausea or confusion, are usually temporary and can be mitigated with appropriate treatment. The role of parents after the surgery is also crucial, as they are responsible for the child’s home care and facilitating recovery.

Post-operative symptoms, such as breathing difficulties or nausea, require attention, and if they persist, medical assistance should be sought. Parents need to be informed about the surgery and aftercare to ensure their child’s smooth recovery.