(Classic) rapid sequence induction and intubation (RSII) has been considered fundamental to the provision of safe anesthesia. This technique consists of a combination of drugs and techniques and is intended to prevent pulmonary aspiration of gastric content with catastrophic outcomes to the patient. This review investigates aspects of this technique and highlights dangers and frauds if this technique is transferred directly into pediatric anesthesia practice. The author recommends a controlled anesthesia induction by trained pediatric anesthesiologist with suitable equipment for the children considered at risk of pulmonary aspiration. RSSI is a dangerous technique if adopted without modification into pediatric anesthesia and has in its 'classic' form no use.
Keywords: children; rapid sequence induction; safe anesthesia.
© 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.