Risks and complications of regional anaesthesia in children

This chapter aims at evaluating the hazards of regional anaesthetic techniques in children. Three different groups of risks are identified: risks in relation to (i) the technique, (ii) the child, and (iii) the anaesthesiologist. Overestimated risks are evaluated. Recommended guidelines concerning the design, the size, and the effect of the patientʹs age and weight are the result of close evaluation of equipment. The selection of agents must be in accordance with safety rules, especially in regard to dosing. The physiological and pharmacological peculiarities of children are considered, as are the risks due to the inadequate expertise of the anaesthesiologist. A comparative evaluation is made of the risks of the same techniques used in children and adults, and their benefit/risk ratio is discussed.