Title : Pulmonary hypertention in the non-cardiac surgery patient
Abstract:
Pulmonary Hypertension is a high-risk condition and is associated with high perioperative morbidity and mortality. As modern medical treatments have helped improve overall survival rates, more patients with pulmonary hypertension present for surgery.
Taking care of patients with pulmonary hypertension in the perioperative period can be challenging. It is important a multidisciplinary team with knowledge in this topic is involved in the care of such patients. Optimal care starts in the preoperative period, where the patient’s condition is optimized, eliminating additional risk factors.
Although there is no recommended anesthesia technique that is associated with better outcomes, high vigilance and expertise are required. Invasive monitoring such as arterial line and pulmonary catheter placement may be needed, depending on the surgical procedural risk and the patient’s condition. In more severe situations cardiac monitoring using transesophageal echocardiography may be necessary. Appropriately interpreted information helps to timely recognize changes and manage treatment.
Similarly, high vigilance should be exercised in the postoperative care period and the patient should be managed in the appropriate level of care area.
In conclusion, taking care of patients with pulmonary hypertension requires a multidisciplinary team and a facility with appropriate resources.
Audience Take Away Notes:
- Pathophysiology of the different types of pulmonary hypertension and how to recognize them
- Medications used to treat pulmonary hypertension
- Anesthetics management of patients with pulmonary hypertension
- Literature on intraoperative management of pulmonary hypertension
