Observational study assessing the laryngeal and pharyngeal spread of topical local anaesthetic administered orally during general anaesthesia in children

This study is observing a routine practice at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne, where a numbing medicine (local anaesthetic) is poured into a child's throat during general anaesthesia. Doctors do this hoping it will reduce unpleasant reactions when the breathing tube is removed, such as coughing or the airway clamping shut. Researchers want to measure how far the local anaesthetic spreads and whether it actually numbs the right areas. You may be eligible if: - Your child is between 6 months and 16 years old - Your child is generally healthy (no significant medical problems) - Your child is having planned (elective) surgery that requires a breathing tube You may NOT be eligible if: - Your child has significant medical problems (classified as ASA grade 3 or above by the anaesthesia team) Talk to your doctor about whether this trial might be right for you.