Caudal analgesia for pediatric day case surgery: assessment of motor function prior to discharge.

The benefits of caudal analgesia are well recognized in the prevention of postoperative pain following pediatric surgery. The possibility of motor weakness may deter anesthetists from using this technique. This study investigates motor function prior to discharge in boys who, as day case patients, received caudal analgesia for pain relief following circumcision. Motor function was assessed using a simple and clinically relevant scale. Three different dosage regimens of bupivacaine were compared. No important motor weakness was demonstrated, and there was no difference with respect to motor block in the three groups. Caudal analgesia may be recommended as a suitable technique for day case patients.