Variations in Physiological, Psychomotor, and Analgesic Parameters during Titration of Nitrous Oxide in 3–12 Years Old Children Managed with Inhalation Sedation

BACKGROUND: The present study was designed to assess variations in physiological, psychomotor parameters, and analgesic effects at various levels of nitrous oxide-oxygen analgesia in 3–12 years old children. DESIGN: One hundred children aged 3–12 years were assessed for physiological, psychomotor, and analgesic parameters at various concentrations of N(2)O, i.e., baseline, 20, 40, 50, and 0% (100% O(2)). Physiological, psychomotor, and analgesic effects were assessed using a pulse oximeter, bender visual-motor Gestalt test, and response to electric pulp tester, respectively. RESULTS: Oxygen saturation (SpO(2)) showed a significant increase while heart rate (HR) showed a significant reduction at 50% N(2)O. No significant changes were observed in respiratory rate with a change in N(2)O levels. Significant reduction in the pain scores was found at the same level of stimulation by an electric pulp tester at 40 and 50% levels. The psychomotor changes were consistently higher at every concentration of nitrous oxide. However, no correlation could be found between various parameters tested. CONCLUSION: N(2)O caused a significant increase in SpO(2) in both the age groups, a decrease in HR, a significant decrease in pain score at 40 and 50% concentration of N(2)O, and had a significant effect on the psychomotor ability of children. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Sharma S, Chopra R, Mathur S, et al. Variations in Physiological, Psychomotor, and Analgesic Parameters during Titration of Nitrous Oxide in 3–12 Years Old Children Managed with Inhalation Sedation. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2020;13(6):650–655.