Use of Ultrasound in Pediatric Caudal Anesthesia: A Randomized Comparative Study

Objective: The aim of this comparative study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided caudal anesthesia compared to blind caudal anesthesia for subumbilical surgery in pediatric patients.

Methods: This prospective study included pediatric patients undergoing subumbilical surgery in the Department of Pediatric Surgery. Patients were divided into two groups: the ultrasound-guided caudal anesthesia group and the blind caudal anesthesia group. Primary outcomes assessed included the success rate of block placement, onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade, analgesic requirements, and perioperative complications.

Results: A total of 40 patients were included in the study, with 20 patients in the ultrasound-guided group and 20 patients in the blind group. The success rate of block placement was significantly higher in the ultrasound-guided group compared to the blind group (p < 0.001). The ultrasound-guided group also demonstrated faster onset of sensory and motor blockade (p < 0.05) and longer duration of analgesia (p < 0.05) compared to the blind group. Postoperative analgesic requirements were significantly lower in the ultrasound-guided group (p < 0.001). No significant differences in perioperative complications were observed between the two groups.

Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided caudal anesthesia was found to be more effective and reliable than blind caudal anesthesia for subumbilical surgery in pediatric patients. It provided a higher success rate of block placement, faster onset and longer duration of sensory and motor blockade, reduced postoperative analgesic requirements, and comparable safety profile. Ultrasound guidance should be considered as the preferred technique for caudal anesthesia in this patient population.