Preface

WHY DID WE CREATE THIS BOOK?

As a specialty, anesthesiology has two dimensions to its practice. The first is a deep fund of knowledge in human physiology, and the second is a procedural skill set needed to manipulate and treat various pathological states. Although there are a plethora of text and video sources for adult patients, there is minimal guidance for pediatric patients.

Clinical Pediatric Anesthesiology addresses this gap by providing a complete multimedia source in addition to a condensed, yet comprehensive, textbook. The text focuses on the unique aspects and considerations necessary for managing pediatric patients. For the multimedia section, found in Chapter 27 and the Supplemental Video Chapter, world-renowned pediatric anesthesiologists demonstrate their techniques, selection of devices, and special considerations in an easily accessible online video format.

WHO SHOULD READ THIS BOOK?

This book is aimed at current health care providers in all specialties who deal with pediatric patients. This includes medical students, trainees, and advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, physician assistants, and anesthesiologist assistants). The objective is to provide a high-yield textbook of pediatric anesthesiology combined with high-quality videos that can be repeatedly used to educate practitioners on the safest and most efficient methods.

HOW IS THE BOOK ORGANIZED?

This book is divided into five major sections with 40 concise chapters written by pediatric anesthesiology leaders from multiple institutions. The goal is to have the book used as a comprehensive guide when preparing for a particular case or managing an intraoperative issue. The textbook includes text, illustrations, and graphics. However, the online multimedia source contains high-definition navigable video demonstrations that can be followed step by step. For every procedure, there is a background section and a review of the equipment, techniques, and alternatives as well as troubleshooting tips.

Each chapter features a “Focus Points” section that summarizes salient concepts guiding readers through each topic. The remainder of the chapter includes detailed topic information accompanied with tables, graphics, and references.

WHAT DO WE WANT FROM YOU?

We hope that the content of our book provides you with the necessary tools to be successful in understanding pediatric anesthesia as a subspecialty and guide you in managing pediatric anesthesia cases. That said, our book is a work in progress with always room for improvement. We welcome your comments or suggestions for future reprints. Please share them with us at UserServices@mheducation.com.