Overnight observation in former premature infants undergoing inguinal hernia repair.

Background: Overnight observation for apneic events is standard practice in former preterm infants. However, the literature supporting current protocols is dated. Therefore, we retrospectively evaluated the post-anesthetic risks in these patients.

Epidural vs patient-controlled analgesia for postoperative pain after pectus excavatum repair: a prospective, randomized trial.

Purpose: Management of postoperative pain is a challenge after the minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum. Pain is usually managed by either a thoracic epidural or patient-controlled analgesia with intravenous narcotics. We conducted a prospective, randomized trial to evaluate the relative merits of these 2 pain management strategies.

Developmental changes of laryngeal dimensions in unparalyzed, sedated children.

Background: Knowledge of the influence of age on laryngeal dimensions is essential for all practitioners whose interest is the pediatric airway. Early cadaver studies documented that the larynx is conically shaped, with the apex of the cone caudally positioned at the nondistensible cricoid cartilage. These dimensions change during childhood, as the larynx assumes a more cylindrical shape.

Morphologic changes in the upper airway of children during awakening from propofol administration.

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the morphologic changes that occur in the upper airway of children during awakening from propofol sedation.

Methods: Children undergoing magnetic resonance imaging of the head underwent additional scans of the upper airway during deep sedation with propofol; this was repeated on awakening. Axial views were obtained at the most posterior sites of the pharynx at the levels of the soft palate and tongue.