Continuous paravertebral block in children. Initial experience.

Continuous paravertebral block has not previously been described for use in children. This study reports the use of this technique in five patients (aged 7 months to 8 years) scheduled for renal surgery or cholecystectomy. The block was not difficult to perform and provided good intra- and postoperative analgesia. Continuous paravertebral block appears to be a promising technique for pain management in children and might prove a valuable addition in the field of paediatric regional anaesthesia.