Blood conservation strategies in pediatric anesthesia

Management of bleeding in the neonate, infant, or child presents its own set of dilemmas and challenges. One of the primary problems is the lack of good scientific evidence regarding the best management strategies for children rather than for adults. The key to success in the predicament is firstly to ensure that the physician has a clear understanding of the underlying normal physiology of the young child's hematologic status. Then by adding knowledge of the abnormal pathology that is being presented, the physician can at least understand what anomalies he or she is facing. Once all the available information concerning the patient's clinical condition and the options available has been well digested, a multidisciplinary approach allows the optimal use of all available resources. Good teamwork, understanding, and communication between all vested parties allows for a synergistic relationship to enhance patient care and give the best available end result.