Sedation/anaesthesia in paediatric radiology.
OBJECTIVE
In this article we will give a comprehensive literature review on sedation/general anaesthesia (S/GA) and discuss the international variations in practice and options available for S/GA for imaging children.


METHODS
The key articles were obtained primarily from PubMed, MEDLINE, ERIC, NHS Evidence and The Cochrane Library.


RESULTS
Recently, paediatric radiology has seen a surge of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, some of which require children to be still and compliant for up to 1 h. It is difficult and sometimes even impossible to obtain quick and high-quality images without employing sedating techniques in certain children. As with any medical procedure, S/GA in radiological practice is not without risks and can have potentially disastrous consequences if mismanaged. In order to reduce any complications and practice safety in radiological units, it is imperative to carry out pre-sedation assessments of children, obtain parental/guardian consent, monitor them closely before, during and after the procedure and have adequate equipment, a safe environment and a well-trained personnel.


CONCLUSIONS
Although the S/GA techniques, sedative drugs and personnel involved vary from country to country, the ultimate goal of S/GA in radiology remains the same; namely, to provide safety and comfort for the patients. Advances in knowledge Imaging children under general anaesthesia is becoming routine and preferred by operators because it ensures patient conformity and provides a more controlled environment.
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust-Queen's Medical Centre Campus, Nottingham, UK. ayber25v@yahoo.com
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Arlachov
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Ganatra
D000768:Anesthesia, General / Q000379:methods; D002648:Child; D016292:Procedural Sedation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D054810:Deep Sedation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D033282:Parental Consent
D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives