General anesthesia without intravenous access in children – a survey of current practice among members of the APAGBI and UK regional representatives of the APAGBI and the AAGBI

Abstract

The majority of respondents to this survey reported that they would usually establish IV access in children undergoing general anesthesia except in specific circumstances.

Anesthetic complications during general anesthesia without intravenous access in pediatric ophthalmologic clinic: assessment of 5216 cases

“…This demonstrates that our institution is not alone in this practice, although previous literature suggests that forgoing IV is not an established standard among anesthesiologists. The results of our survey are in stark contrast with a 2012 study showing only 13 of 727 (1.8%) surveyed anesthesiologists stating that they would perform general anesthesia in children for an EUA without IV access 7 ; if our center is added to the survey results we demonstrate that 2/3 perform ophthalmologic exams and minor procedures without obtaining IV access. It is even more interesting that the surveyed institutions had eclectic international backgrounds, including Europe, South America, and North America, which minimizes the chance this could be a regional trend.…”

“…The majority stated that there would be no situation in which they would even consider it. 7 The controversy regarding the safety of general anesthesia without IV access outside of the operating room environment is exacerbated by the relative paucity of clinical data and the diverse types of relevant procedures.…”

The placement of an intravenous cannula is always necessary during general anesthesia in children: a pro‐con debate

“…A recent survey of current practice specifically addressed the question of general anesthesia without intravenous access in children (4). The survey was sent to members of the Association of Paediatric Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland (APAGBI) and to UK regional representatives of APAGBI and the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland (AAGBI).…”