Fascial plane blocks in pediatric anesthesia: A narrative review.

Abstract

Regional anesthesia techniques have become a cornerstone of pain management in the adult population, providing adequate analgesia while minimizing systemic side effects. Despite the numerous benefits demonstrated in pediatric studies, the implementation of regional anesthesia in children remains insufficiently adopted in clinical settings. One primary concern preventing broader application is the potential for complications of these techniques in pediatric patients, which understandably raises apprehension among clinicians. However, the introduction of fascial plane blocks in the literature has led to a significant advancement in this field. These regional anesthesia techniques are increasingly being incorporated into routine clinical practice, as they are relatively easy to learn and apply and safe techniques. Fascial plane blocks provide adequate pain management while minimizing opioid consumption, which not only helps reduce the risk of opioid-related side effects but also contributes to a more comfortable perioperative and postoperative experience for young patients. These blocks can significantly enhance patient recovery and satisfaction by facilitating analgesia. This narrative review briefly summarizes different indications of fascial plane blocks and their effectiveness in managing pain among pediatric patients, illuminating critical points to consider when applying these techniques.