Factors Associated with Prolonged Exposure to General Anesthesia During Dental Rehabilitation Under General Anesthesia In Patients Under Age Three Years.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the risk of prolonged general anesthesia (GA) for pediatric dental patients and understand factors that contribute to prolonged GA in patients under age three years in an academic hospital.

Methods

A retrospective chart review for pediatric dental patients treated using GA collected data for patient age, treatment provided, other services involved in patient management, and case GA length. Further chart analysis was completed by a multidisciplinary team for cases of prolonged general anesthesia.

Results

A total of 114 cases were evaluated. The incidence of prolonged GA exposure was 21.9 percent (<small>N</small> equals 25). Cohort data of cases younger than three years show that cases of prolonged GA exposure were more likely to be closer to age three, require longer non-throat pack time, require more restorative procedures, require longer procedure times, and utilize additional surgical services more often (P<0.05). Four common themes for prolonged exposure were identified (significant restorative needs, provider-level training, anesthesia complications, and utilization of other services), with most cases (88 percent) experiencing multiple themes as contributing factors. Few adverse effects were noted, and none had long-lasting effects.

Conclusions

Dental rehabilitation cases in very young patients are at risk for prolonged exposure to GA. Providers should be aware of total anesthesia time while completing dental rehabilitation using GA and proactively attempt to reduce the risk of prolonged exposure.