Oesophageal Doppler-guided fluid management may improve outcome following major intra-abdominal surgery. However, comparison with fluid restriction strategies, including a cost-effectiveness analysis are required.

Our results are similar to the US Society of Pediatric Anesthesia members, suggesting this remains an issue internationally. Consideration of practices in other specialties gives some guidance. Our survey shows a range of views as to what physical restraint is or involves, and what constitutes acceptable practice regarding the use or avoidance of physical restraint. We were unable to demonstrate consensus.

Myotonic dystrophy is a neuromuscular condition inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion, and is most commonly diagnosed in the neonatal period. With improving levels of care, these patients are now presenting more commonly for anaesthesia. We review the clinical features of the condition, and then discuss the steps in the anaesthetic process, outlining the anaesthetic implications of myotonic dystrophy at each stage.

A 13-year-old boy with myotonic dystrophy underwent insertion of a percutaneous gastrostomy feeding tube under general anaesthesia. We used a laryngeal mask airway and a spontaneously breathing technique with propofol total intravenous anaesthesia. Postoperative vomiting and aspiration, 12 h after the procedure, subsequently required intubation and ventilation. We discuss the anaesthetic management of this case and review the features of the disease to be considered when contemplating anaesthesia in such patients.