Management of the Pediatric Patient for Interventional Radiologic Procedures

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to aid the interventional radiologist who is asked to perform an interventional radiologic procedure on a pediatric patient. The pediatric patient poses a different set of problems when compared with his or her adult counterpart. The obvious differences in size can make even the simplest of adult procedures technically difficult in a small child or infant. In addition, one must be aware of the differences in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and psychology that correspond to normal growth and development in children. Finally, the patient's cooperation, or lack thereof, necessitates the use of sedation, placing a further burden on the interventional radiologist. This chapter should aid the interventional radiologist in the care of children. With some forethought and advanced preparations, the interventional radiologist should be able to care for pediatric patients safely and effectively.Objectives: On completion of this article, the reader will be able to prepare the pediatric patient adequately for an interventional radiology procedure. If sedation is necessary, the reader will understand how to prepare the patient for sedation, administer the sedative in a safe, controlled setting, and monitor the patient until he or she is completely recovered. Accreditation: Tufts University School of Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. TUSM takes full responsibility for the content, quality, and scientific integrity of this continuing education activity. Credit: Tufts University School of Medicine designates this education activity for a maximum of 1.0 hour credit toward the AMA Physicians Recognition Award in category one. Each physician should claim only those hours that he/she actually spent in the educational activity.