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Importance of Anesthesia in
2
Chapter 1
Pediatric La
paroscopic Procedures
AlejandroEscalona-Espinosa, RosinaAlcaraz-Ramos, DavidAguilar-Romero and KeisukeLira-Hernandez
Anesthesia plays a crucial role in pediatric laparoscopic procedures. It highlights the unique challenges posed by laparoscopic surgery in young children and newborns, and the need for specialized care in the selection and administration of anesthetics. The text further investigates the physiological impacts of laparoscopic surgery, such as hemodynamic changes due to increased intra-abdominal pressure, and potential complications arising from prolonged CO2 absorption. The need for a pediatric anes­thesiologist to be trained to perform good anesthetic techniques in these procedures, such as increasing the ventilatory minute volume to counteract lethal effects, is also analyzed.
Keywords: anesthesia, pediatric, laparoscopic surgery, intra-abdominal pressure, pneumoperitoneum, CO2 absorption, hemodynamic alterations, ventilatory minute volume
. Introduction
Laparoscopic surgery, which involves small incisions and advanced technology for internal procedures, presents unique challenges in a pediatric setting. Anesthesia is crucial for facilitating patient immobility, controlling pain, and ensuring a stable state during the operation. Moreover, specialized care in the selection and adminis­tration of anesthetics in children is essential to minimize risk and ensure successful recovery. This combination of precision in anesthesia delivery and laparoscopic techniques allows for effective management of pediatric conditions, optimizing clinical outcomes and the overall patient experience.
. Laparoscopic surgery
The laparoscopic technique in children and infants is still under development and refinement. To date, there has not been extensive research on the effects of this technique on systemic and cerebral oxygenation. Furthermore, the precise effects of surgical maneuvers combined with conventional anesthesiologic procedures on hemodynamic regulation remain controversial.
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Hemodynamic alterations associated with abdominal laparoscopy are attributed to the increase in intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) generated by the creation of a pneu­moperitoneum (PP) using CO2. The primary adaptive responses include decreased venous return due to compression of the inferior vena cava, as well as increased central venous and arterial pressures, with no apparent change in heart rate (HR) [1].
Laparoscopy involves the introduction of carbon dioxide into the surgical site to facilitate visualization. CO2 remains the most used gas during laparoscopic surgery due to its non-flammability, cost-effectiveness, and easy elimination from the respira­tory system, although it has different biophysical properties under various thermal conditions. In long-term laparoscopic surgery, prolonged absorption and accumula­tion of CO2 can lead to hypercapnia, which can cause hypertension, tachycardia, and other complications [2]. These changes lead to pressure-related acidosis. To counteract the respiratory alterations after insufflation, it is necessary to increase the ventilatory minute volume by a pediatric anesthesiologist. Research has shown that this increase in CO
is inversely correlated with age, possibly because the peritoneum
2
of infants is proportionally larger and better perfused [3].
The pneumoperitoneum also generates cardiovascular effects by increasing intra­abdominal pressure, CO2 absorption through the peritoneum, and stimulation of the neurohumoral vasoactive system. In young children, aged 6–36months, an intra­abdominal pressure of 10mmHg or more (higher than right atrial pressure) leads to a decrease in venous return, right ventricular cardiac output, as well as preload, and left ventricular cardiac output. In addition, increased intra-abdominal pressure may trigger the release of catecholamines, contributing to an increase in mean arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance. In pediatric patients, bradycardia may also develop due to a strong vagal reflex induced by the pneumoperitoneum, which may require emergency disinflation [4].
Li-Wei conducted a study to observe hemodynamic and respiratory changes in 36 neonates undergoing laparoscopic surgery. They administered intra-abdominal pressure with pneumoperitoneum between 8 and 14mmHg and cannulated an arterial line to measure heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation (SPo2), mean arte­rial pressure (MAP), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), and arterial pH. Li-Wei found significant differences in HR (p=0.05), an increase in PaCO2 (p=0.05), and a decrease in pH at 20minutes with a significant p-value of 0.05, concluding that the pressure of pneumoperitoneum with CO2 in neonates should be maintained in a narrow range of 8–14mmHg to avoid hemodynamic and respiratory changes [5].
Pathophysiological hemodynamic alterations during laparoscopic procedures in children have not yet been fully explored. Therefore, in young children and in long­term surgeries, standardization of minimally invasive intraoperative assessment requires rigorous anesthetic monitoring to prevent possible adverse hemodynamic outcomes [6, 7]. In most studies, a 10–30% reduction in cardiac output has been observed with significant pathophysiological changes, highlighting the importance of specialized anesthetic support in pediatric laparoscopy, especially in infants.
In a small sample of eight young infants, hemodynamic measurements were performed through transesophageal echocardiography, assessing the CO
insufflation
2
pressure at a CO2 pressure of 12mmHg. An increase in blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance, a decrease in HR and cardiac index (CI), systolic wall stress, end-diastolic and end-systolic index, and a decrease in shortening fraction (AF) with a p-value of 0.05 were observed. Regarding the movement of the wall of the left ventricle, it caused a reduction in the septal wall and hyperkinesia of the lateral wall
Importance of Anesthesia in Pediatric Laparoscopic Procedures DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.115024
4
without the latter being statistically significant. All these changes decreased with insufflation pressures of 6mmHg [8].
Hypothermia and hypercapnia are two major concerns in laparoscopic surgery, as systemic hypothermia and hypercapnia can cause arrhythmias and acidosis, respec­tively. These conditions can have profound consequences, such as brain injury or even death. Fortunately, well-known strategies have been developed to prevent these com­plications in this pediatric surgical setting. These strategies include the use of external warming blankets, intravenous fluid warming, CO2 gas humidification, reduction of gas leaks to minimize persistent cold gas ingress, and adjustment of ventilator minute volume and peak inspiratory pressure. In addition, disproportionately increasing the respiratory rate during CO2 insufflation is considered necessary, such as setting the respiratory rate at 50–60/min in patients with a body weight of less than 4kg [9].
Fujimoto T et al. evaluated minute volume in 65 neonates with an intra-abdominal pressure of 8mmHg, observing that all neonates presented hypercapnia with CO2 levels between 48 and 61mmHg with a fixed minute volume of 200ml/kg/min, which had to be adjusted by 30–40% more to achieve adequate CO2 levels. Therefore, the recommended pressures for younger infants are 8–12mmHg and beginning insuf­flation with the lowest possible CO2 flow is identify any adverse physiological changes and their immediate reversal [10].
Continuous monitoring is essential during anesthesia in neonates and premature infants. This includes monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, capnography, and body temperature. Invasive monitoring, such as invasive blood pressure or central venous pressure monitoring, may be necessary in selected cases for a more accurate assessment of hemodynamic status. Postoperative pain manage­ment is also important in neonates and premature infants. Multimodal techniques including opioid analgesics, local anesthetic agents, and regional techniques such as peripheral nerve blocks can be used to minimize the need for systemic opioids and reduce side effects.
. Preoperative evaluation
Every patient must undergo a medical and anesthetic evaluation, including a directed physical examination and relevant medical history, to evaluate comorbidities that may impact the toleration of the surgery as well as the response of the physiologic changes due to laparoscopic surgery. Congenital malformation may be present, thus it is important to individualize each patient and consult the required specialist (e.g., pediatric cardiologist) if needed to be prepared and lower the intraoperative risks during surgery. This management requires an experienced anesthesiologist [2].
Preoperative assessment for laparoscopic procedures in the pediatric population is an essential process to ensure the safety and success of the surgical intervention. This comprehensive examination encompasses several clinical and medical aspects to tailor care to the specific needs of each pediatric patient. Based on the above, we will describe some key considerations in the preoperative evaluation for these procedures in the pediatric population; however, it is important to take into consideration the cognitive role of the patient to obtain a complete and more accurate assessment [11]:
• Detailed Medical History: Comprehensive review of the patient’s medical history, including family history, previous medical conditions, allergies, and current medications.
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5
• Physical Examination: Complete assessment of the patient’s general condition,
focusing on cardiorespiratory function, physical development, and the presence of any abdominal abnormalities.
• Imaging studies: Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or CT scans, are performed
to obtain a detailed visualization of the abdominal anatomy and to assess the need for and feasibility of laparoscopy.
• Laboratory: Analysis of laboratory tests to assess renal, hepatic, and hematologi-
cal function, as well as blood coagulation.
• Psychological preparation: Consideration of the emotional and psychological
preparation of the pediatric patient and their parents for surgery.
• Multidisciplinary coordination: Collaboration with other pediatric specialists as
needed, such as cardiologists, anesthesiologists, and intensive care specialists.
• Anesthetic planning: Thorough assessment of the patient by the anesthesiology
team to determine the most appropriate anesthetic strategy.
• Informed Consent: Obtaining informed consent from parents or legal guardians,
explaining in detail the risks and benefits of laparoscopy.
• Specific Considerations: Assessment of specific considerations for laparoscopy,
such as patient positioning, intra-abdominal pressure, and continuous monitoring.
• Postoperative planning: Establishment of a postoperative plan, including pain
management, postoperative observation, and discharge instructions.
Preoperative assessment from an anesthesiologist’s point of view is a comprehen­sive process that requires an individualized approach for each patient, thus ensuring safety and well-being during and after the surgical procedure (Figure ) [11].
Figure 1. Process of preoperative anesthetic evaluation in pediatric patients.
Importance of Anesthesia in Pediatric Laparoscopic Procedures DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.115024
6
. The importance of pediatric anesthesiologists during laparoscopic
procedures
Maintenance of anesthesia during laparoscopic surgery in pediatric patients is a critical process that seeks to ensure hemodynamic stability, adequate muscle relax­ation, and patient comfort. Anesthesia during laparoscopy in neonates and premature infants is a delicate and crucial issue in medical practice, as these patients are espe­cially vulnerable due to their physiological and anatomical immaturity. Neonates and preterm infants have unique anatomical and physiological characteristics that must be considered during anesthesia. Their airway is narrower, and their cardiovascular system is still developing, which may affect the response to surgical stress and the ability to maintain homeostasis during the procedure.
Anesthetic induction is key for these procedures, as anxiety and fear of the pro­cedures is quite common in the pediatric population. This is why induction must be accompanied by age-appropriate preoperative management to maintain the desired comfort. A gentle and gradual anesthetic induction is performed, preferably with inhalation or intravenous agents adapted to the age and weight of the patient. The main goal of anesthesia is to facilitate surgery with the least possible risk to the patient and to ensure a gentle induction and optimal recovery after the surgical procedure. The choice of volatile agent plays a key role in the induction and recovery from anesthesia. Those agents with lower solubility in blood gases have been shown to have faster times in these processes. An ideal inhaled anesthetic agent should be character­ized by low solubility in blood gases, minimal pungency, negligible respiratory irrita­tion, resistance to metabolic and physical degradation, and ready availability [12].
The most used volatile inhalation anesthetics include nitrous oxide, desflurane, isoflurane, halothane, enflurane, among others. Halothane is frequently used as an anesthetic agent in pediatrics due to its non- irritant nature and its ability to induce anesthesia gently and rapidly in children [13].
In the management of the airway during surgery, pediatric anesthesiologists are the most qualified in this area because the pediatric difficult airway is one of the most challenging clinical situations faced by physicians. This is due to their short tolerance to apnea, propensity to airway oedema, and anatomical changes during growth [14]. A patent airway and adequate oxygenation are ensured. Smaller endotracheal tubes and supraglottic devices may be considered depending on age.
Non-anesthesiologists are often responsible for airway management in pediat­rics or neonatal patients, leading to a significantly increased risk of adverse events during airway management. These adverse events are often associated with tracheal intubation (TIA). Although the definition of adverse events associated with tracheal intubation does not encompass hypoxemia, they are often reported together [15]. Current evidence indicates that (1) both tracheal intubation-associated adverse events and hypoxemia are common incidents in airway management in pediatric intensive care units, emergency departments, as well as neonatal intensive care units, including laparoscopic surgeries; (2) various factors, such as patient characteristics, physician skills, and clinical practices, are linked to the occurrence of these adverse events; and (3) interdisciplinary quality improvements have contributed to a decrease in the frequency of these events. In this context, collaboration between pediatric anesthe­siologists and non-anesthesiologists may be an effective strategy to improve airway safety in these clinical settings [16].
During laparoscopic procedures, general anesthesia is ideally used, for which mechanical ventilation is performed with controlled pressures and volumes adjusted
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7
to maintain adequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal. Ensuring optimal ventilation during invasive ventilation contributes to lung protection. High ventila­tion pressures, high tidal volumes, and the formation of regional atelectasis contrib­ute significantly to ventilator-induced lung injury. Respiratory physiology in children has specific characteristics that make the diaphragm particularly prone to dysfunc­tion. Due to the greater flexibility of the abdomen and a smaller contact area between the diaphragm and rib cage in infants, contraction of the diaphragm does not result in the same expansion of the lower ribs as in adults. In addition, the high flexibility of the chest wall and the horizontal arrangement of the ribs may cause distortion during inspiration, especially during sleep with rapid eye movements or in situations of respiratory distress [17].
The combination of these characteristics, together with smaller distal airways, results in high parietal compliance in neonates and infants. This condition implies that the end-expiratory lung volume must be maintained above the relaxation volume of the respiratory system, known as dynamic hyperinflation. This phenom­enon is achieved by delayed expiratory airflow resulting from contraction of the laryngeal muscles (in infants without an artificial airway) or persistent activation of the diaphragm during expiration. Thus, the diaphragm may be active during both inspiration and expiration. In contrast, during conventional pediatrics mechanical ventilation, the diaphragm tends to remain inactive [18].
Most patients require mechanical ventilation (MV) during surgical procedures, and improving intraoperative MV management may decrease the frequency of postoperative pulmonary complications and improve treatment outcomes. Lung ventilators are becoming increasingly sophisticated and require technical skills, and it is necessary to adjust the ventilation mode to achieve low tidal volume (VT) and low positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). It is crucial to calculate VT based on ideal rather than actual body weight. Currently, there is no unmistakable evidence to support the benefits of any specific mode of ventilation [19].
With MV, alterations in intrapleural and intrathoracic pressure and lung volume occur, and these variations impact the cardiovascular system. Changes in atrial filling (preload), ventricular emptying resistance (afterload), heart rate, and myo­cardial contractility are observed. Changes in intrathoracic pressure affect intra­thoracic structures such as the heart, pericardium, and large arteries and veins. As volume increases, the lungs exert an increasing force on the heart, chest wall, and diaphragm. Simultaneously, the chest wall expands outward, the diaphragm descends, and the heart, pericardium, and coronary arteries are compressed by the lungs [20].
The impact of mechanical ventilation during laparoscopy on the heart and hemo­dynamics is conditioned by the choice of ventilation mode and alterations in intratho­racic pressure and lung volume. Different ventilatory regimens may generate a similar effect on hemodynamics when intrathoracic pressure and lung volume are identical. Cardiac output (CO) remains constant at equal tidal volume (VT) and increases with decreasing volume. Research indicates that CO decreases when the lungs experience inflammation [21]. This is why the pediatric anesthesiologists continuously monitor blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation to detect any changes in hemody­namic stability.
Specifically, laparoscopy is associated with more favorable cosmetic results, shorter hospitalization periods, less postoperative pain, and faster recovery to resume daily activities. However, it is not without potential short- and long-term complica­tions, which may include mild pain, abdominal discomfort, and adhesion formation.
Importance of Anesthesia in Pediatric Laparoscopic Procedures DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.115024
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During the insufflation of carbon dioxide to create the pneumoperitoneum, intra­abdominal pressure is carefully controlled to minimize adverse effects on cardiovas­cular and pulmonary function. The pneumoperitoneum is essential in laparoscopic surgery, as it allows visibility and mobility in the workplace. However, pneumoperito­neum modifies the homeostasis of the abdominal cavity and may promote metabolic changes through mechanical and biochemical effects [22].
It has been shown that the chemical, physical, and biological properties of pneumoperitoneum can affect clinical outcomes, such as postoperative pain, length of hospital stay, and recovery time. These data indicate that the chemical, physical, and biological effects of CO2 on the peritoneum can trigger inflammatory processes and tissue alterations. In particular, the magnitude of morphological changes has been found to correlate with intra-abdominal pressure levels. The initiation of CO
2
pneumoperitoneum induces an inflammatory response that modifies factors such as chemokine levels in both plasma and peritoneum [23].
In the era of minimally invasive surgery, it is essential to understand the essential physiological mechanisms that undergo changes during laparoscopy and pneu­moperitoneum to make this surgical approach even less invasive. The peritoneum, which lines the abdominal cavity, is positioned as the main actor in generating these laparoscopy-induced changes. This lining maintains an exceptional balance between various components and factors, including chemokines, which play a crucial role in the activation and recruitment of leukocytes to inflammatory sites. Laparoscopy impacts both the integrity and biology of the peritoneum, alters the immune system, and leads to peritoneal acidosis through CO2 insufflation and its influence on micro­circulation. Although it is not fully elucidated how these factors interact with each other and how they translate clinically, understanding these mechanisms represents the challenge in achieving truly minimally invasive surgery [24].
To help minimize complications, maintenance anesthetic depth is important, adjusting the depth of anesthesia as needed, using inhalation agents or intravenous drugs to ensure balanced anesthesia. Anesthesia is maintained by a volatile agent in combination with oxygen and air. Both isoflurane and halothane have been shown to be effective in this context. However, an increased risk of arrhythmias has been observed when halothane is used in spontaneously breathing patients due to hyper­capnia. In addition, a potential risk of hepatotoxicity associated with halothane, related to decreased hepatic blood flow, has been identified. Isoflurane, on the other hand, has been shown to be associated with excessive secretion production and bron­chospasm. Total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) using a propofol infusion has been successfully implemented, although a 20% or greater increase in minute ventilation is required to maintain normocapnia. Nitrous oxide is avoided as it may contribute to intestinal distension, nausea, and vomiting.
Despite care, there are risks and complications associated with anesthesia in neonates and premature infants, such as respiratory depression, hypotension, bra­dycardia, pulmonary aspiration, airway injury, and anesthetic neurotoxicity. It is important to assess and mitigate these risks in each individual case. Safe management of anesthesia in neonates and premature infants requires a well-coordinated multidis­ciplinary team that includes pediatrics anesthesiologists, pediatrics surgeons, neo­natologists, specialized nurses, and other health care professionals. In addition, staff must receive specialized training in the anesthetic care of this vulnerable population. Effective maintenance of anesthesia during pediatric laparoscopic surgery requires careful and personalized care, considering the unique characteristics of each patient and the specific demands of the surgical procedure (
Figure ).
Pediatric Surgical Procedures – An Updated Guide – Volume I
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Figure 2. Types of anesthesia, laparoscopic procedures and medications used.
. The role of the anesthesiologists in the postoperative period
Postoperative monitoring plays a crucial role in the follow-up and care of the patient after surgery, covering several key aspects. Vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and blood pressure, are constantly assessed, providing vital information on the patient’s physiological status and allowing for the detection of complications or responses to the recovery process. In addition, oxygen saturation is continuously measured by pulse oximetry to ensure adequate oxygenation, particu­larly relevant in patients undergoing surgery, as it helps to quickly detect any drop in oxygen levels that could indicate respiratory or circulatory problems.
Simultaneously, the assessment of the state of consciousness is conducted, which is essential to detect possible neurological complications or changes in the patient’s response to anesthesia. Aspects such as response to stimuli, orientation in time and space, and the ability to communicate coherently are observed. Although pain percep­tion is subjective, any postoperative discomfort or pain is assessed and addressed.
Observation of respiratory rate, respiratory pattern, and the presence of any respiratory distress are important aspects of postoperative monitoring, especially in procedures that may affect pulmonary function, such as abdominal surgery. At the same time, intravenous fluid infusion is administered and monitored, essential to maintain an adequate water and electrolyte balance during the recovery phase. This constant monitoring allows early detection of immediate postoperative complica­tions, such as excessive bleeding, allergic reactions to medications, or anesthesia­related problems.
Meticulous attention to these aspects of postoperative monitoring contributes sig­nificantly to the early identification of potential problems and effective management of patient recovery, and this comprehensive approach is essential to ensure a safe and successful recovery process.
Effective communication with the patient, especially in the case of children, is crucial to determine pain intensity and adjust analgesic medication as needed. Effective pain management is a critical aspect of the postoperative process, and the presence of a pediatric anesthesiologists plays a key role in this aspect, especially in
Importance of Anesthesia in Pediatric Laparoscopic Procedures DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.115024
10
the context of laparoscopic procedures in children. The adaptation of appropriate analgesic strategies is essential to ensure the well-being of the pediatric patient. The pediatric anesthesiologists not only evaluates and selects pain medications carefully but also considers non-pharmacological techniques that can contribute significantly to pain management.
In the case of pediatric laparoscopy, the choice and administration of analgesics should be tailored to the age and individual needs of each patient. Pediatric anesthe­siologists consider the specific physiological and pharmacokinetic characteristics of children, tailoring doses, and types of drugs to achieve optimal analgesia. In addition, effective communication with the patient and caregivers is essential to understand pain perception and adjust the analgesic plan as needed.
The pediatric anesthesiologists may also implement non-pharmacological tech­niques, such as distraction or cognitive behavioral therapy, especially in older chil­dren, to complement pharmacological pain management. Lidocaine patching, the use of patient-controlled analgesic infusions (PCA), and consideration of regional nerve blocks are additional strategies that pediatric anesthesiologists can employ to opti­mize analgesia in the postoperative period. Thus, a pediatric anesthesiologist plays an integral role in the management of pain after laparoscopy in the pediatric population, ensuring personalized and effective care that contributes to a more comfortable and satisfactory recovery for the patient.
. Conclusion
Anesthesia in pediatrics laparoscopic procedures plays an essential role in ensuring the safety, well-being, and success of the surgical intervention. The combination of laparoscopic surgery, with its advantages in terms of clinical outcomes and recovery, together with the careful and specialized administration of anesthesia, allows a variety of pediatrics conditions to be effectively addressed.
From the preoperative evaluation, where a thorough review of the medical history, detailed physical examination, and multidisciplinary studies and interventions are coordinated, to the anesthetic planning tailored to the specific needs of each patient, the presence of pediatric anesthesiologists is imperative. Consideration of factors unique to the pediatric population, such as apnea tolerance and airway anatomy, highlights the need for specialized expertise in this field. During the actual laparo­scopic procedure, specific hemodynamics and respiratory challenges are addressed, such as alterations associated with pneumoperitoneum and adaptation to CO2 properties. Constant monitoring of hemodynamics stability and ventilation, as well as the ability to adjust anesthesia as needed, demonstrate the skill of the pediatrics anesthesiologists.
The selection of anesthetic agents should be careful. Agents with rapid onset and recovery, as well as minimal elimination by the patient, are preferred to minimize the risk of adverse effects. In general, the use of total intravenous general anesthesia is preferred over inhalation anesthesia because of its lesser impact on the respiratory system. It is crucial to maintain a patent airway and adequate ventilation throughout the procedure. In neonates and premature infants, smaller and more delicate air­way devices may be required, as well as careful adjustments in ventilation to avoid hypoventilation or hyperventilation, which can have profound consequences.
In the postoperative period, continuous monitoring of vital signs, assessment of consciousness, and effective pain management are essential for a successful recovery.