Regional anaesthesia in children

Regional anaesthesia in children is increasing in popularity. Over the last decade it has been recognized that regional anaesthesia provides a safe an d effective alternative to general anaesthesia in children for certain proc edures. Furthermore the combination of general anaesthesia with regional te ch-niques allows rapid emergence and excellent postoperative pain control. The special features of regional anaesthesia in children are discussed: emp hasis is placed on pharmacology, toxicity and side effects of local anaesth etics. Several regional techniques are described in detail.