Malignant Hyperthermia under General Anesthetic Operation: A Case Report.

Kim, Chan; Bae, Ik Hyun; Seo, Young Min; Chang, Suk Choo

Case Report

Journal of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons 2002;29(3):218-220.
Published online May 1, 2002.

Malignant Hyperthermia under General Anesthetic Operation: A Case Report.

Chan Kim, Ik Hyun Bae, Young Min Seo, Suk Choo Chang

Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Gospel Hospital, College of Medicine, Kosin University, Busan, Korea. scchang@kosinmed.or.kr

Abstract

Malignant hyperthermia is an inherited disorder of skeletal muscle, characterized by temperature elevation, muscle destruction, muscle rigidity and high oxygen consumption. It is triggered by anesthetic agents, usually potent inhalation anesthetics and succinylcholine. It is fatal in the majority of cases unless early diagnosis and treatment are performed. We experienced one case of malignant hyperthermia incidentally. She had post burn scar contracture on anterior chest and abdomen and local flap was prepared for releasing scar contracture under general anesthesia. Approximately 3 hours after induction, tachycardia developed followed by severe arrhythmia with unstable blood pressure, temperature elevation and cyanosis. Anesthesia was stopped immediately and aggressive emergency management was performed with Dantrolene. About 4 hours after induction, the patient was recovered to normal state with intensive care.

Keywords: Malignant hyperthermia; General anesthesia; Dantrolene