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Continuous remifentanil for pediatric neurosurgery patients
1Department of Neurosurgery and Division of Pediatric Critical Care, Children's Hospital of Buffalo, N.Y., USA.
Pediatric Neurosurgery
|January 13, 2001
Summary
Remifentanil hydrochloride, a titratable opioid, is effective for serial neurological exams in pediatric neurosurgery patients with intracranial masses. This rapid-acting anesthetic demonstrated no adverse effects in the presented cases.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Neurosurgery
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Remifentanil hydrochloride is a potent, titratable opioid agonist.
- Its rapid onset and offset of action are advantageous in clinical settings.
- Intracranial mass lesions often require frequent neurological assessments.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases with intracranial mass lesions were managed using remifentanil hydrochloride.
- Remifentanil was administered via bolus doses and continuous infusions, titrated to achieve desired sedation levels for neurological examinations.
- The anesthetic was restarted post-examination to maintain patient comfort and stability.
Findings:
- Remifentanil hydrochloride facilitated serial neurological examinations in pediatric patients with intracranial masses.
- The ultra-short duration of action allowed for precise control over sedation levels.
- No adverse side effects were observed during the administration of remifentanil hydrochloride.
Implications:
- Remifentanil hydrochloride is a suitable anesthetic option for pediatric neurosurgical patients needing frequent neurological assessments.
- Its pharmacokinetic profile supports its use in procedures requiring rapid titration and recovery.
- This approach may enhance the safety and efficacy of managing pediatric patients with intracranial pathologies.