An age-based approach to dermatologic surgery: Kids are not just little people

Breton Yates1, James Whalen1, Hanspaul Makkar1

  • 1Department of Dermatology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut.

Clinics in Dermatology
|December 2, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric dermatologic surgery requires special anesthesia and pain management strategies. This review covers topical, local, and general anesthesia, plus post-procedure pain relief, considering child and parental anxiety.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Anesthesiology

Background:

  • Surgical dermatologic procedures in children present distinct challenges compared to adults.
  • Anxiety in both children and parents necessitates tailored procedural approaches.
  • Existing protocols for adult anesthesia and analgesia may not be directly applicable to pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the unique considerations for anesthesia and analgesia in pediatric dermatologic surgery.
  • To highlight differences in topical, local, and general anesthesia administration for children versus adults.
  • To discuss safe and effective postprocedural pain management in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on pediatric dermatologic surgery anesthesia and analgesia.
  • Comparative analysis of anesthetic techniques in pediatric versus adult populations.
  • Examination of safety profiles for various anesthetic and analgesic agents in children.

Main Results:

  • Topical and local anesthesia application requires specific pediatric adaptations.
  • General anesthesia use and safety in children are critical considerations.
  • Postprocedural pain management in children differs significantly due to opioid safety concerns.

Conclusions:

  • Anesthesia and analgesia in pediatric dermatologic surgery demand specialized knowledge and techniques.
  • Careful selection and administration of anesthetic and analgesic modalities are crucial for patient safety and procedural success.
  • Further research into safe and effective pediatric pain management strategies is warranted.

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