Less-invasive anesthesia technique improves pediatric surgery safety, patient experience

Editor's Note

A needle-based technique that blocks sensory and motor function below the chest without intubation or general anesthesia makes surgery safer for pediatric patients, according to a July 15 report in Michigan Medicine.

The University of Michigan's pediatric spinal anesthesia program, also implemented at University of Michigan-Sparrow Health Center, reportedly eliminates airway management risks and stabilizes vital signs without exposing patients to opioids.

Designed for pediatric surgical procedures below the belly button, the technique is particularly useful for infants because airway management can be challenging for patients younger than 1 year old, Michigan Medicine reports. In addition to safety, benefits include smoother operative and postoperative periods.

Common surgeries or procedures performed under spinal anesthesia include hernia repairs, circumcisions and surgery on the lower belly, hips, legs, or feet. Since its 2018 launch, the program has performed over 1,000 surgeries and trained around 50 fellows, some of whom have established similar programs nationwide. The team also received a grant to develop a spinal anesthesia skills training program.