Study of Different Low Flow Oxygen Rates on Gas Exchange in Children Aged 1 to 6 Years During Apnea Under Anesthesia

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how different low flow oxygen rates affect carbon dioxide buildup during apnea in children aged 1 to 6 years under general anesthesia. The study aims to compare the effects of low flow apneic oxygenation at rates of 2, 4, and 8 liters per minute on the rate of carbon dioxide accumulation, which has not been previously explored in pediatrics. This is important because children, especially infants and younger ones, are more prone to low oxygen during apnea, which can increase health risks. Children undergoing elective surgery will receive general anesthesia with muscle relaxants, and apneic oxygenation will be given using a nasal cannula at different low flow oxygen rates for 3 minutes during apnea after induction. Before this, patients are preoxygenated and monitored with vital signs including pulse oximetry and end-tidal carbon dioxide. After intubation, mechanical ventilation and anesthesia maintenance will be provided, and an arterial line will be placed for blood gas monitoring. Participants will be closely observed during the apnea period to measure carbon dioxide and oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. Researchers will record the rise in arterial carbon dioxide between 60 and 180 seconds of apnea, along with secondary outcomes such as time to oxygen desaturation, oxygen pressure differences, and postoperative side effects like sore throat or coughing. Parents will be asked about any side effects after surgery, and the total participation includes preoperative assessments, anesthesia, and post-anesthesia recovery monitoring.

Different Low Flow Rates on Gas Exchange in Children During Apnea