Skeletal Abnormalities in Children

Abstract Abnormal development of bone or cartilage in children causes many alterations in anatomy and physiology. With over 400 distinct syndromes and subtypes, it is notable that there is an incidence of 15.7 per 100,000 live births of disproportionate shortening of limbs or trunks. Down syndrome is the most common genetic disorder, with other disorders, such as achondroplasia, Klippel-Feil syndrome, Marfan syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, and Morquio syndrome, also being relatively common. These syndromes can present anesthetic challenges, such as difficulty with intubation, proper positioning, and management of cardiopulmonary comorbidities. These issues should be anticipated when determining an anesthetic plan for these children.