Laryngospasme en anesthésie pédiatrique : mythe ou réalité ? (Podcast)

Pediatric anesthesia is featured by potentially severe respiratory complications, especially laryngospasm considered as one of the most frightening. Laryngospasm produces suddenly ineffective ventilation and oxygen arterial desaturation. Risk factors have been investigated and prevention is critical in patients at risk. The management of laryngospasm follows predetermined guidelines. However, the diagnosis is commonly done in excess. Ultrasound examination could afford new insights into vocal cords closure observation. Thus, differential diagnosis can be ruled out and therapeutics adapted to avoid potentially lethal outcomes. We discuss herein physiopathology, risk factors, prevention and treatments of laryngospasm in pediatric anesthesia.