Anesthesia for the Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Patient.

Pediatric patients present to the oral and maxillofacial surgeon for surgical services that can be performed safely and efficiently. Children and parents tend to be anxious; achieving cooperation is paramount for successful procedures. Several techniques can be used to alleviate anxiety and provide analgesia and anesthesia. This article outlines the anatomy and physiology of children and the preoperative anesthetic preparation and techniques unique to pediatric anesthesia. It discusses standards in training in pediatric anesthesia and current recommendations for monitoring. Management of children with autism spectrum disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders highlights special considerations in the management of these children.