Emergence delirium – liberation with water! - Abstract
Emergence agitation (EA) is a common, lesser spoken post anaesthetic complication which is considered as a normal course of anaesthesia by many. It can traumatise the parent and health care staff. An agitated aggressive child can cause harm to self and his surroundings. Its’ cause, prevention and management has been a mystery for more than forty years now. There are no guidelines put forth for treatment of such a common complication (1). Incidence of EA increases with pre-operative anxiety, use of sevoflurane for maintenance, hypoglycaemia, dehydration, Otorhinolaryngology and ophthalmic procedures. The occurrence of maladaptive behaviour and its implications in the long run after an episode of EA are not known though some speculations for behavioural changes have been made. Research has shown premedication and Total Intravenous Anaesthesia can reduce its occurrence (1-2). We write this article in order to share our experienced of the same in a 11-year old child who was operated for adenoidectomy, myringotomy and grommet insertion.