Ivy Family Health Updates

 
Get the Flash Player to see this player.

Malignant hyperthermia is a severe metabolic reaction which can occur during general anesthesia.  It was first noted in the 1960’s when anesthetic gases started to be widely used for surgeries.  When it occurs, there is an increase in the heart rate, the blood pressure will start to rise, and as it progresses there is a generalized contraction of the muscles resulting in a rigidity of the extremities.

With today’s improved technology for monitoring patients, early signs of malignant hyperthermia can be detected, and the metabolic reaction can be stopped before it becomes fatal.  There is a genetic predisposition to developing malignant hyperthermia, so a careful history for any anesthetic complications in the family will help to alert the anesthesia provider to a possible risk. If there is any positive history, the anesthesiologist will try to use IV medications instead of the volatile gases to avoid any possible complications.

If during a surgery there is a suspicion of malignant hyperthermia, the anesthesiologist will immediately give IV Dantrolene which will decrease the contraction of the muscles to prevent the release of lactic acid and the increase in body temperature. 

The key to preventing malignant hyperthermia is to get a good family history, and to diagnosis it early by closely monitoring the patients during any general anesthesia.