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Emergence delirium in children: many questions, few answers

Gordana P Vlajkovic1, Radomir P Sindjelic

  • 1Department of Anesthesiology, Belgrade University Medical School, Belgrade, Serbia. gvlajkov@eunet.yu

Anesthesia and Analgesia
|December 21, 2006
PubMed

Insights

New inhaled anesthetics in children may increase emergence delirium (ED), causing distress and longer recovery. Identifying at-risk children and implementing preventive measures can reduce this common anesthesia side effect.

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Pediatric Critical Care

Background:

  • Emergence delirium (ED) is a common, troublesome phenomenon in pediatric anesthesia.
  • Newer inhaled anesthetics are associated with a higher incidence of ED.
  • ED causes patient discomfort, parental dissatisfaction, and potential delays in hospital discharge.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review factors contributing to emergence delirium in pediatric patients.
  • To discuss strategies for preventing and managing ED.
  • To highlight the need for further clinical research.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on pediatric emergence delirium.
  • Analysis of factors related to anesthesia, surgery, patient characteristics, and medications.
  • Discussion of preventive and therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

  • Multiple factors, including anesthetic agents, surgical procedures, patient age, and adjunct medications, may contribute to ED.
  • Restless emergence behavior leads to increased care needs and potential treatment delays.
  • Preventive strategies include reducing preoperative anxiety, managing postoperative pain, and ensuring a calm recovery environment.

Conclusions:

  • Emergence delirium is a significant concern in pediatric anesthesia, impacting patient comfort and recovery.
  • Identifying children at risk and implementing multimodal preventive strategies are crucial.
  • Further clinical trials are necessary to fully understand ED etiology and optimize treatment.

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