A rapid review of variation in the use of dental general anaesthetics in children

Introduction: The use of dental general anaesthetics (DGAs) remains a cause for concern due to additional strains placed on health services. There are numerous factors influencing the prevalence and use of DGAs, and understanding these is an important first step in addressing the issue.

Aim: Conduct a rapid review of current peer-reviewed and grey literature on the variation in the use of DGAs in children.

Methods: Electronic searching using Medline via Ovid covering DGA articles from 1998 onwards, written in English. Publication types included primary and secondary sources from peer-reviewed journals and reports, as well as grey literature.

Results: From 935 results, 171 articles were included in the final review. Themes emerging from the literature included discussions of DGA variation, variations in standards of service provision by health services, and the socio-demographic and geographical characteristics of children. Prominent socio-demographic and geographical characteristics included age, other health conditions, ethnic and cultural background, socioeconomic status and deprivation, and geographical location.

Conclusions: This review identified numerous variations in the patterns associated with DGA provision and uptake at both a health service and individual level. The findings demonstrate the complicated and multifaceted nature of DGA practices worldwide.