Question

Desflurane is contradicted for induction for infants and children because of _________?

1) Increased risk of anesthesia-related hepatitis
2) Decreased cerebral metabolism
3) Decreased cardiac output
4) Upper airway complications

Answer 1

Desflurane is contraindicated for induction in infants and children because it poses a high risk of upper airway complications such as laryngospasm and bronchospasm, which are of particular concern due to the smaller size and increased reactivity of the pediatric airway.Hence the correct answer is option 4.

Step-by-step explanation:

Desflurane is contraindicated for induction in infants and children primarily because of the risk of upper airway complications. Like diethyl ether, desflurane is one of the inhalant anesthetics used to induce general anesthesia. However, in contrast to diethyl ether, which has a wide safety margin but is highly flammable and can cause nausea, desflurane poses different risks. Airway complications, such as laryngospasm and bronchospasm, are particularly concerning in pediatric patients due to their smaller airway size and increased reactivity. This increased sensitivity in the pediatric population leads to a higher risk of adverse events, making desflurane less suitable for young patients. Anesthetic agents with a better safety profile in infants and children, like sevoflurane, are generally preferred.