Effectiveness of nitrous oxide sedation for otolaryngologic examination in the outpatient clinic in uncooperative children. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brathen, Elin; Boudewyns, An; Verhulst, Stijn; Roete, Ann; Verlooy, Joris; van Meerbeeck, Nathalie; Vanderveken, Olivier; van der Poel, Nicolien
• Is Part Of: International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology. Volume 162(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Pediatric otolaryngology -- Conscious sedation -- Nitrous oxide sedation; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Oto-rhino-laryngologie -- Périodiques; Pédiatrie -- Périodiques; 618.9209751
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2022.111328
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0165-5876

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of equimolar mixture of 50% nitrous oxide and oxygen (EMONO) to obtain conscious sedation for otolaryngologic examinations and minor Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT) procedures in children with or without comorbidities. Methods: Retrospective analysis of patient records from all children who were uncooperative during routine ENT examination, and therefore underwent otomicroscopic examinations and/or minor ENT procedures sedated with EMONO in the outpatient ENT clinic. The following data were collected: patients characteristics, sedative effect, analgesic effect and adverse effects. Patients were divided into three subgroups: 1) no relevant comorbidities, 2) Down Syndrome and 3) other causes of behavioural problems or developmental delay. Results: Data were analyzed for 99 patients (170 procedures). Seven procedures failed. A good to excellent sedative and analgesic effect was obtained in most patients without a difference between subgroups. Minor and transient side effects were encountered in one third (34%) of the patients. Conclusions: EMONO is an effective agent to achieve conscious sedation and to perform ENT examinations or minor procedures in otherwise uncooperative children with or without developmental delay.