desflurane pediatric considerations
Pronunciation: DES-flew-rane
Special precautions for desflurane use in children due to increased airway irritability and higher rates of coughing, breath-holding, and laryngospasm.
Full Definition
Clinical considerations specific to desflurane administration in pediatric patients, primarily related to its pungent odor and airway irritant properties. Unlike sevoflurane, desflurane commonly causes coughing, breath-holding, excessive salivation, and increased risk of laryngospasm during induction, making it generally unsuitable for mask induction in children. When used in pediatric anesthesia, desflurane is typically introduced after intravenous induction or following establishment of anesthesia with a less irritating agent. Its rapid onset and offset properties can be advantageous for certain pediatric procedures despite these limitations.
Usage
Usage note: Generally avoided for pediatric mask inductions due to airway irritation
In Context
- "Due to desflurane pediatric considerations, sevoflurane was chosen for mask induction in the 3-year-old patient." — anesthetic plan documentation
- "The anesthesiologist noted desflurane pediatric considerations when planning the maintenance phase after IV induction." — drug selection rationale