Anaesthetic considerations for paediatric laparoscopy

Summary Children, infants and neonates represent an anaesthetic challenge because of age-specific anatomical and physiological issues. Apart from paediatric-specific anaesthetic considerations, the paediatric anaesthetist must understand the implications of laparoscopic surgery, and prevent and react appropriately to changes that will occur during these procedures. Pre-operative assessment is a multi-specialist responsibility. Predicting the effects on each organ system, planning the strategy required and maintaining open communication within the team ensure the success of the operation and limit perioperative morbidity.