[Anaesthetic management for endoscopy of the pediatric airway]

We have developed a modern strategy for the anaesthetic management of the pediatric airway using anaesthetic drugs such as sevoflurane, propofol, mivacurium and remifentanil, together with new techniques including the laryngeal mask. This strategy provides optimal conditions for the examiner and maximum safety for the pediatric patient. The endoscopic investigation of pediatric airways has become important for the diagnosis and treatment of many pediatric diseases, and is often performed with the support of a pediatric anaesthetist. Important indications include acute and chronic stridor, chronic obstructive airway disease, mucoviscidosis and foreign body aspiration. The best and safest techniques are outlined depending on the clinical situation, and the most frequent complications are discussed, e.g. hypoxaemia, respiratory arrest, laryngospasm, bronchial obstruction, pneumothorax and overdosing of local anaesthetic agents.