US-measured OD-ETT at SD was in good agreement with the actual OD-ETT, suggesting that US-measured SD helps in choosing the appropriate ETT diameter for children. In children older than 12 months, the equation 'OD (mm) = 0.01 × age (months) + 0.02 × height (cm) + 3.3' may help select the appropriate ETT.

SummaryUsing ultrasound imaging, the optimal angle for needle insertion during caudal epidural injection in children was estimated. After general anaesthesia, ultrasonography was performed at the sacral hiatus in 130 children aged 2-84 months positioned in the lateral position. The median [range] values for the intercornual, caudal space depth and the distance from skin to the posterior sacral bony surface were 17.0 [9.6-24] mm, 3.5 [1-8] mm and 21.0 [10-39] mm, respectively. The optimal angle showed no significant correlation with age, weight, height or body surface area. The median [range] calculated optimal angle for the needle was 21.0 [10-38]°. We conclude that the needle should be inserted at about 20°to the skin to avoid puncture of the bone and potential intra-osseous injection.

A single dose of propofol without a continuous infusion can provide appropriate sedation in children undergoing MRI for <30 min.

Age should be considered when placing a needle in landmark techniques for pediatric II/IH nerve blocks. However, needle depth should be confirmed by the fascial click due to the lack of predictable physiologic factors.

No abstract