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A comparison between single- and double-breath vital capacity inhalation induction with 8% sevoflurane in children

Kok-Yuen Ho1, Wee-Leng Chua, Serene S T Lim

  • 1Department of Anaesthesia (Paediatrics), KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore. hokokyuen@yahoo.com.sg

Paediatric Anaesthesia
|May 22, 2004
PubMed

Insights

The double-breath (DB) vital capacity (VC) method for sevoflurane induction is as well tolerated as the single-breath (SB) technique. This DB approach significantly reduces anesthesia induction time in children.

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Pediatric Anesthesia
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Assessing sevoflurane induction techniques in pediatric patients.
  • Comparing double-breath (DB) vital capacity (VC) versus single-breath (SB) VC methods.
  • Evaluating patient tolerance and induction time for rapid inhalation anesthesia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if DB VC rapid inhalation induction with sevoflurane is as well tolerated as SB VC technique.
  • To ascertain if DB VC induction results in a shorter induction time compared to SB VC.
  • To compare complication rates and patient satisfaction between the two induction methods.

Main Methods:

  • 104 children (ASA I-II, age ≥6) undergoing elective surgery were randomized into SB VC or DB VC groups.
  • Both groups received 8% sevoflurane in 66% nitrous oxide for inhalation induction.
  • Induction time, complications (cough, laryngospasm, breath-hold, movement, salivation), and satisfaction were recorded.

Main Results:

  • Anesthesia induction was significantly faster in the DB group (41 ± 9 s) compared to the SB group (50 ± 14 s).
  • The DB technique was associated with a lower incidence of complications (15.4%) versus the SB technique (50%).

Conclusions:

  • Double-breath VC inhalation induction with sevoflurane is well-tolerated, comparable to the SB technique.
  • The DB method provides a faster onset of anesthesia in pediatric patients.
  • DB VC induction offers improved safety and efficiency in pediatric anesthesia.
Abstract

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