Prevention of emergence agitation after sevoflurane anesthesia for pediatric cerebral magnetic resonance imaging by small doses of ketamine or nalbuphine administered just before discontinuing anesthesia.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requires long-lasting immobilization that frequently can only be provided by general anesthesia in pediatric patients. Sevoflurane provides adequate anesthesia but many patients experience emergence agitation. Small doses of ketamine and nalbuphine provide moderate sedation but their benefits have subsided at the time of emergence.