Anaesthetic Challenges in a Toddler for Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Decortication - A Case of Empyema Thoracis

Abstract

Video assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has lesser operative complications, lesser postoperative pain and shortened hospital stay, making it a favourable approach in paediatric patients. These advantages have led to an increase in its usage in the past few years. Furthermore, the indications for VATS in children have also increased exponentially. However, it demands an efficient technique for one lung ventilation. A thorough knowledge of the associated pathophysiological changes, adequate monitoring and planning renders safe provision of anaesthesia in this procedure. This article focuses on VATS for decortication performed in a toddler with empyema thoracis and the various strategies adopted for optimising oxygenation during single lung ventilation.