Burn Injuries

Abstract

Pediatric burn injuries present unique challenges to the anesthesiologist. These include alterations in physiology and pharmacology, as well as technical challenges with airway management, vascular access, pain management, and physiological monitoring. This chapter uses a systems approach to discuss the unique pathophysiology of the burn patient, the pharmacological alterations, and addresses some special circumstances including the management of inhalational injuries, electrical burns, carbon monoxide poisoning, and cyanide poisoning. Post-operative pain management, opioid sparing techniques, and regional anesthesia for the burn patient are also discussed.