Anaesthetic Management Of A Neonate With Congenital Absence Of Sternum- Cantrells syndrome

Abstract : Sternal defects are very rare congenital anomalies. Primary closure earlier in life is the ideal treatment of choice because of the flexibility of thorax and its ability to grow and accommodate the heart and lung without compromising its function with minimal compression. With this notion if we proceed for surgery without ruling out all possible congenital anomalies accompanying the sternal defect, we could end up having catostropic results. This case-report is about anaesthetic management of 7 day old neonate with a large congenital sternal defect who showed a favourable outcome following primary closure. Though the anaesthetic management appears to be simple, the complex nature of the condition and possible pitfalls an anaesthetist would end up making, are highlighted here. The above could totally determine the outcome of the surgery.