Paediatric surgery

Abstract

AbstractAnaesthesia for paediatric oromaxillofacial surgery ranges from simple dental procedures, cleft lip and palate, to the temporomandibular joint and ultra-major craniofacial surgeries. In this chapter, paediatric oromaxillofacial abnormalities and their association with congenital syndromes are outlined. In planning, anaesthetists should be aware of the possibility of difficult tracheal intubation and ventilation. Identification and management of the difficult airway in these children is discussed. Different strategies to allay perioperative anxiety including newer techniques such as intranasal dexmedetomidine are introduced. Updated guidelines on fasting, the choice of tracheal tubes, intraoperative concerns such as fluid management for prolonged procedures, blood conservation techniques, prophylaxis and management of postoperative nausea and vomiting, and perioperative pain management are discussed. Anaesthetic management of specific oromaxillofacial surgical procedures is also presented.