MANAGEMENT OF MALIGNANT HYPERTHERMIA

Malignant hyperthermia is a rare, life-threatening pharmacogenetic disorder that presents as a hypermetabolic response to volatile anesthetics and depolarizing muscle relaxants in susceptible individuals. Patient survival depends on early recognition and immediate action by the anesthesiologist, as well as prompt administration of dantrolene.

This course is aimed at the detection, diagnosis, prevention and management of this anesthetic emergency. Early detection of susceptible patients before undergoing general anesthesia, having the necessary equipment to respond to a crisis in each center where volatile anesthetics are administered, and training staff to deal with these types of events are vital.

The importance of constant training in simulation centers, the permanent review of medications for crisis management, and the existence of prevention protocols when suspected are highlighted. With adequate diagnosis and effective management, mortality has fallen to levels close to 5% thanks to the use of dantrolene and the progress of monitoring during the anesthetic act.