Intravenous conscious sedation in adolescents undergoing surgical procedures.

For children aged 12- 16years conscious sedation using intravenous midazolam is recognised as a standard technique, yet there remains a reluctance to treat this group in primary care. This service review aims to assess the effectiveness of this mode of treatment in adolescents undergoing surgical dental procedures. We aim to add to the body of evidence supporting conscious sedation using IV midazolam in this patient cohort. A retrospective service evaluation was undertaken reviewing the records of all adolescent patients (12-16year olds) undergoing surgical dental procedures with IV conscious sedation and local anaesthetic during a five month period. All patients were pre-assessed and either ASA I or ASA II. All cases under taken had a dedicated seditionist and separate operator. Patients were clinically monitored throughout supported by intermittent non-invasive blood pressure monitoring and continuous pulse oximeter readings. Any complications or comments were noted. The majority (approaching 97%) of cases showed treatment was completed successfully. IV conscious sedation using midazolam is a safe and effective method of treating 12-16 year olds undergoing invasive dental procedures. This mode of treatment is a viable and cost effective alternative to general anaesthetic for this patient group. Patient selection is important to ensure there is a level of maturity and patient co-operation to allow cannulation and treatment to be completed.