pulmonary hypertension anesthesia

Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are at an increased risk during the anesthesia process. PAH can lead to an increased workload on the heart, complicating blood pressure control and respiratory management under anesthesia.

Initially, patients with mild PAH may experience blood pressure fluctuations and respiratory distress during anesthesia. Anesthesiologists must closely monitor these patients' blood pressure and oxygen saturation levels, adjusting the dosage of anesthetic agents as needed. For those with moderate PAH, the risks escalate during anesthesia, with potential for arrhythmias and hypotension. Anesthesiologists should select anesthetic agents with greater caution and be prepared for emergency interventions. In the case of severe PAH patients, the risks are the highest, with the possibility of acute right-sided heart failure and pulmonary edema. For these individuals, preoperative comprehensive assessment of cardiopulmonary function by anesthesiologists is crucial, and close collaboration with cardiologists is imperative to devise an appropriate anesthetic plan.

It is imperative for PAH patients to disclose their condition to their physicians before any surgical procedure or treatment and to follow the guidance provided for anesthesia. Self-determination regarding anesthesia acceptance or plan alterations should be avoided to prevent unnecessary risks.