Effects of low flow oxygen on carbon dioxide levels in children during apnea

Effect of Different Low Flow Rates on Gas Exchange in Anesthetized Children During Apnea A Single Blinded Randomized Study

Not applicable Interventional Fayoum University Hospital · NCT06659887

This study tests how different low flow rates of oxygen can help keep carbon dioxide levels safe in children who are under anesthesia and stop breathing for a short time.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages1 Year to 6 Years
SexAll
SponsorFayoum University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Al Fayyum, Faiyum Governorate)
Trial IDNCT06659887 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how different low flow rates of oxygen affect carbon dioxide accumulation in anesthetized children during a 3-minute apnea period. It aims to determine the optimal flow rate that minimizes the risk of hypoxia, which is particularly critical in younger patients. The study will involve routine preoperative assessments and the use of nasal cannulas for oxygen delivery. The findings could enhance safety protocols during anesthesia in pediatric patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 1 to 6 years, weighing between 10-20 kg, who are scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia.

Not a fit: Patients with respiratory diseases, anemia, or those requiring nasal intubation will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve the safety of anesthesia in children by optimizing oxygen delivery during critical apnea periods.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on apneic oxygenation in adults have shown success, this specific approach in pediatrics is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children aged 1 to 6 years old weighting 10-20 kg.
* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I or II.
* Children will be scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Parent refusal
* Patient required nasal intubation
* Children with a cardio-respiratory disease like asthma or recent upper respiratory infection.
* Anemia.
* Obstructive sleep apnea, sepsis.
* Children prone to hypoxia or hypercarbia, and upper airway obstruction.
* Children reported to have nasal obstruction .

Where this trial is running

Al Fayyum, Faiyum Governorate

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ApneaLow flow rateChildrenGas exchange
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.