Regional anesthesia in the pediatric patient

Pediatric regional anesthesia has been viewed less favorably in the past because it was often considered an extra and unnecessary procedure. Current anesthesia practice demonstrates that local anesthetic techniques are of great value either as the sole anesthetic or for postoperative analgesia in the pediatric population. This review of literature contrasts the anatomic, physiologic, and pharmacokinetic differences between the pediatric and adult populations regarding regional anesthesia. The advantages and special considerations of the pediatric population also are reviewed. Regional anesthesia in the pediatric patient population does have its benefits and should be considered as an option in the provision of anesthesia in the pediatric age group.