Epidemiological characteristics and disease burden of pediatric caries treatment under general anesthesia in China: A 3-year retrospective study

Background: The global demand for pediatric caries treatment under general anesthesia (PCTGA) has been increasing, driven by the rising incidence of dental caries in young children and adolescents and the challenges posed by non-cooperative pediatric patients. This study aimed to examine the epidemiological features and disease burden of PCTGA in China during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Data were collected from the medical record discharge summaries of patients admitted to three children’s hospitals affiliated with the Futang Research Center for Pediatric Development between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2022. Information gathered included patient sex, age, region, year of hospitalization, and hospitalization costs. Results: A total of 2707 cases were reviewed, representing 0.43% (2707/634597) of all hospital admissions during this time. The male-to-female ratio was 1.43:1. Most PCTGA hospitalizations occurred in the 4–6-year age group. The COVID-19 pandemic influenced both case numbers and monthly hospitalizations. Childhood autism was the most common comorbidity in children requiring PCTGA. The median hospitalization cost was 15201.94 RMB. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the epidemiological characteristics and disease burden of PCTGA in China from 2020 to 2022, offering a better understanding of its impact during the pandemic.