Perspectives on Starting a Pediatric Spinal Anesthesia Program.

Abstract

The use of spinal anesthesia as an alternative to general anesthesia for infants has seen a significant resurgence in recent years, but achieving its successful implementation at an institutional level is not without challenges. This manuscript provides a structured approach to establishing a pediatric spinal anesthesia program, with emphasis on identifying implementation champions, careful preparation, stakeholder engagement, and quality control to ensure a successful and sustainable initiative. The key to success lies in creating an early blueprint for the process, with a focus on ensuring procedural success early on via thorough preparation and careful selection of patients within an initial pilot program. Successful expansion of the program depends on the implementation of robust staffing models and proactive efforts to educate staff and maintain adherence to established protocols.