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Preoperative Fasting Time and Its Association with Hypoglycemia during Anesthesia in Pediatric Patients Undergoing

Hussien Endris Assen1, Anissa Mohammed Hassen2, Ananya Abate3

  • 1Department of Anesthesia, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.

Biomed Research International
|August 2, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Prolonged preoperative fasting in children undergoing surgery is common and significantly increases the risk of hypoglycemia during anesthesia. This study highlights the need to re-evaluate fasting guidelines for pediatric patients to ensure their safety and well-being.

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Preoperative fasting is crucial for preventing pulmonary aspiration during anesthesia.
  • The impact of extended fasting durations on pediatric glucose levels under anesthesia requires further investigation.
  • This study addresses preoperative fasting times and hypoglycemia risk in pediatric patients undergoing elective surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess preoperative fasting durations in pediatric patients.
  • To determine the association between fasting time and hypoglycemia during anesthesia.
  • To identify factors contributing to hypoglycemia in this patient group.

Main Methods:

  • An institutional-based cross-sectional study involving 258 pediatric patients.
  • Systematic sampling, face-to-face interviews, and medical record reviews were employed.
  • Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with hypoglycemia.

Main Results:

  • Mean fasting times from breast milk, solid foods, and clear fluids were 7.75, 13.25, and 12.31 hours, respectively.
  • Over a quarter (26.2%) of pediatric patients experienced hypoglycemia post-induction.
  • Fasting duration from solid foods, residence, and patient source were significantly linked to hypoglycemia.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric patients undergoing elective procedures often experience prolonged preoperative fasting.
  • Extended fasting times are significantly associated with an increased incidence of hypoglycemia during anesthesia.
  • Findings suggest a need for revised fasting protocols to mitigate hypoglycemia risk in pediatric surgical patients.
Abstract

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