Revista Cubana de Anestesiología y Reanimación (May 2020)
Reflex Laryngospasm in Pediatric Urologic Surgery
Abstract
Introduction: Laryngospasm is a complication feared by anesthesiologists. It is associated with bronchospasm, hypoxia, arrhythmias, aspiration of gastric contents, and cardiac arrest. It is more common among neonates and infants. It is closely related to the type of surgery and consists in an intense and prolonged closure of the glottis in response to direct or reflex glottic stimulation.Objective: To describe the management of reflex partial laryngospasm in a pediatric patient during a urological intervention.Case presentation: 18-month-old patient who received meatotomy. During surgery, he presented reflex partial laryngospasm managed with physical maneuvers, without the need to use medication or the mechanic airways ventilation.Conclusions: The maneuvers used are safe and effective for the management of reflex laryngospasm without the need to address the airway or using of medications. Satisfactory outcomes were achieved with a risk-benefit ratio in favor of the patient.
