Reported side effects of intravenous midazolam sedation when used in paediatric dentistry: a review.

BACKGROUND: Intravenous (IV) midazolam may be of value as an alternative paediatric dental sedation technique, but there is some apprehension concerning its routine use due to a lack of evidence regarding its safety and side effects. AIM: To review all available literature reporting the side effects of IV midazolam in children undergoing dental procedures. DESIGN: Both randomised controlled trials (RCT) and non-randomised studies were reviewed. Reported side effects were categorised as either significant or minor, and the percentage prevalence of significant or minor side effects per episode of treatment was calculated. RESULTS: Five RCTs were included, in which no significant side events were reported; however, minor side effects were recorded (n = 33, 19.5%), with paradoxical reaction being the most common (n = 11, 6.5%). Six non-randomised studies were included, in which no significant side effects were reported; however, minor side effects were reported (n = 118, 16.8%) with paradoxical reaction being the most common (n = 89, 12.7%). CONCLUSIONS: Although no significant side effects were recorded, of the minor side effects reported paradoxical reaction was the most common. Due to inconsistency in side effect reporting, the authors suggest the application of a standardised adverse event reporting tool for future studies of sedation in paediatric dentistry.

Preoperative cross-matching in major head and neck surgery: a study of a department's current practice and eligibility for electronic cross-matching.

OBJECTIVE: The maximum surgical blood ordering schedule (MSBOS) has reduced but not eliminated the over-ordering and wastage of blood products. Electronic cross-matching (ECM) may be a suitable alternative method to provide blood on demand in eligible cases. The purpose of this study was to assess the department's current blood ordering policy and to identify patients eligible for ECM. STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective observational study of 88 consecutive maxillofacial surgical oncology patients. RESULTS: A total of 383 units of blood were cross-matched, of which 43% were not transfused. Of these, 38% were reallocated and 5% discarded. Of all cross-matched blood, 82% was eligible for ECM; 18% was not eligible, 6% because of the presence of antibodies and 12% because of lack of a second historical sample. CONCLUSIONS: ECM is recommended as a safe method for elective surgery. Blood can be provided on demand, reducing workload and costs for transfusion services and minimizing wastage.