General anaesthetic on 4yo - what would you do?

[loomer]

My DD has curly toes and consultant at hospital has recommended a 'tenotomy' (snipping the tendon) on two toes... DH and I just can't decide what to do, as this simple procedure would unfortunately require a general anaesthetic - this worries us more than the actual op/recovery itself, which sounds like it's pretty simple and easy to recover from.

Her toes don't actually bother her at the moment, but we're concerned that they might be a problem in later life (soreness and rubbing in her shoes, or even just teasing at school). But if we don't address it now she could maybe make the decision herself when she's a bit older, and might not even need the GA - perhaps she could have it done under a local?

But if we sort it out now she will forget all about it soon enough because she's so young - I just think the GA will be quite traumatic for both her and us (she's only just had her pre-school 'booster' jabs and is still very worried about having any more needles stuck in her)...

We've had her appointment sent through from the hospital and have to confirm it by tomorrow, but we just seem to go in circles when we discuss it.

What would you do?

Hi loomer I can understand your concerns. Can I just say [shock} what was that nurse thinking...? Perhaps needs some training in how to reassure patients. My DD1 would have been out of the door and I would NOT have been able to get her back in to the building again after that description.

DD1 damaged the nail bed on her finger and had to have it repaired under GA. One of the most frightening things I've been through although she was absolutely fine.

She also had a canula put in with magic cream. Basically while cuddling me and the next thing she was asleep. She was first on the list that day and back with us within the hour. Bounced back really quickly and was playing and eating again as normal.

BTW whilst we had her treasured blankie with us I held onto it so it didn't get lost. She also got a new rag doll when it was over.

Best of luck whatever you decide.

DD1 was 3 by the way and had the op instead of her birthday party (although we did rearrange it for later).

What a horrible nurse!!!

I would be furious if someone suggested pinning my DS for a minute holding a mask over his face, although we have had to do this for his asthma medication, it's not something that we take lightly as we find it very traumatic for him and us.

I had GA for C-section with DS less than 2 years ago. I asked for gas and they said no. I refused a needle and they got gas. I think you just have to be assertive.

Also, I couldn't even count to 3 before I was unconscious from the gas, so if your DD is upset, it won't be a whole minute of struggling (or if it is, she wont remember all of it). I hope that makes you feel better.

I still can't quite believe the nurse thought that was a reassuring thing to tell you