Pilot Study: Intraoperative Clonidine and Postoperative Behaviour

Randomised Controlled Pilot Study: Does Intraoperative Clonidine Reduce the Incidence of Post-hospitalisation Negative Behaviour Changes in Children Who Are Distressed During the Induction of General Anaesthesia?

Children who are upset during induction of general anaesthesia are frequently distressed postoperatively and are more likely to demonstrate negative behaviour changes.

This pilot study is a randomised controlled study of clonidine vs placebo during anaesthesia to identify whether postoperative behavioural disturbance may be minimised.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age 2 to 10 years inclusive
• healthy (ASA 1 or 2)

Exclusion Criteria:

• inability of parents to understand english