Evaluation of Ketamine Anesthesia Outcomes in Pediatric Ophthalmology: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Tertiary Hospital Setting

Abstract

Introductions: Ketamine, a widely used anesthetic, has gained prominence in pediatric ophthalmology due to its unique properties, including dissociative anesthesia and minimal respiratory depression. This study evaluates the safety, efficacy, recovery times, complications, and parental satisfaction of ketamine anesthesia in pediatric patients undergoing ophthalmic procedures at Moulvibazar BNSB Eye Hospital, Sylhet, aiming to provide valuable insights into its application in resource-limited settings. Objectives: To evaluate ketamine anesthesia outcomes in pediatric ophthalmology. Specific: To assess demographic data, hemodynamic parameters, and complications. Method and Materials: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Moulvibazar BNSB Eye Hospital, Sylhet, from July 2023 to June 2024, involving 96 pediatric patients. Data were collected on preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative parameters. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, including descriptive statistics and tests to assess associations between variables. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained from participants' guardians. Result: The study involved 96 pediatric patients, with a mean age of 7.2 ± 2.5 years. Males represented 56.3%, while 43.7% were females. The most common indication for ketamine anesthesia was cataract surgery (35.4%), followed by strabismus surgery (29.2%). Preoperative hemodynamics showed a mean heart rate of 98 ± 12 bpm and oxygen saturation of 97 ± 1%. Intraoperative complications included hypotension (8.3%) and nausea/vomiting (10.4%). Recovery times were predominantly ≤40 minutes. Conclusion: In conclusion, ketamine anesthesia proves safe and effective for pediatric ophthalmology, with stable hemodynamics, minimal complications, quick recovery, and high parental satisfaction, making it suitable for short-duration surgeries.