Sacral epidural block (S2 S3 intervertebral space, P. Busoni's method) is as safe and easy as caudal block. 11 children ASA 1 undergoing ambulatory surgery are studied (inguinal herniorrhaphy, undescended testis). Bupivacaine 0.25%, 0.5 ml.kg-1 is unsatisfactory, but anaesthesia is excellent with 0.8 ml.kg-1.