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Postoperative nausea and vomiting in children
1Nemours Cardiac Center, Orlando, FL 32806, USA.
Insights
Preventing and treating postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in children is crucial. This review explores antiemetic drugs and strategies to minimize PONV, a common cause of morbidity in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Anesthesiology
- Pharmacology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) presents a significant challenge in pediatric anesthesia.
- Despite advancements, PONV remains a notable source of morbidity in children undergoing surgery.
- Understanding emesis physiology and developing new agents have improved but not eliminated PONV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current strategies for preventing and treating PONV in pediatric patients.
- To provide an overview of available antiemetic classes for PONV management.
- To discuss multifactorial approaches to minimize PONV complications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of antiemetic agents and PONV management strategies.
- Analysis of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care elements.
- Synthesis of information on various antiemetic drug classes.
Main Results:
- PONV prevention and treatment require a multifactorial approach.
- Effective strategies include preoperative preparation, intraoperative prophylaxis, and tailored postoperative care.
- Numerous classes of antiemetics are available for PONV treatment.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive, multifactorial strategy is essential for effective PONV management in children.
- Rational use of antiemetics and appropriate anesthetic techniques are key components.
- Continued focus on minimizing PONV is vital for improving pediatric surgical outcomes.
Abstract:
The prevention and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in children remains an important challenge for the pediatric anesthesiologist. Despite a clearer understanding of the physiology of emesis and with the development of new anesthetic and antiemetic agents, PONVis still an important cause of morbidity. The approach to minimizing this complication is multifactorial and includes proper preoperative preparation, a rational approach to intraoperative antiemetic prophylaxis, choice of appropriate anesthetic agents and techniques, and a definitive plan for postoperative care. This review gives a brief account of the numerous classes of antiemetics available to treat this condition and the various strategies that can be used to reduce PONV.