Combined Procedures in a Single Pediatric Anesthesia Episode

jpedsurg.org

The practice of combining multiple procedures into a single anesthesia episode varies widely between children’s hospitals.1 This can result in improved access to care and convenience for the family, but with important downsides, both surgically and for the healthcare system. In this Perspectives article we will focus on combined procedures that involve multiple surgical subspecialties, as well as those that are combined with imaging in the radiology suite. We will discuss logistical considerations, putative benefits and downsides, including adverse events and complications.

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Article · Mar 2026 · 1 min read

In brief

This perspectives article examines the practice of performing multiple surgical and imaging procedures under a single anesthesia episode in pediatric patients. It analyzes the variability in practice patterns across children's hospitals, discussing logistical challenges, benefits like improved access and family convenience, and potential risks including complications and adverse events.

Combining procedures under single anesthesia varies widely across pediatric hospitals, affecting care access and family convenience.
Multi-subspecialty combined procedures require careful logistical coordination between surgical teams and anesthesia providers.
Combined procedures carry both benefits (reduced anesthesia exposures) and risks (prolonged operative time, increased complications).
Imaging studies combined with surgical procedures in radiology suites present unique scheduling and safety considerations.
Institutional protocols should weigh efficiency gains against potential adverse events when planning combined anesthesia episodes.

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