If enough of the fluid leaks out, the patient may experience a headache. Thanks to the improved design of today's spinal needles it is rare to have this problem after a spinal anesthetic. Epidural anesthesia is performed with a larger needle than spinal anesthesia and the medicine is placed outside the membrane holding the spinal fluid. The likelihood of headache is higher if the epidural needle should puncture the membrane. The risks of anesthesia in children are similar to those for adults, although the frequency of occurrence may differ.
Respiratory complications are low but more frequent in children than adults.
Discuss your concerns about the risks associated with anesthesia with your child's anesthesiologist before the surgery. The older child will often be given an IV because it is a faster way to go to sleep. If the older child is afraid of the IV catheter insertion, an inhalation induction is the most common option. Medications are available that will sedate your child prior to the start of the anesthetic. These medications are similar to Valium but are shorter acting.