An Anesthesiologist’s Nightmare - Malignant Hyperthermia:

The recent death of 18 year old Stephanie Kuleba due to malignant hyperthermia complications has raised the spotlight once again on plastic surgery and this particular complication. The high school senior chose to have a reconstructive breast augmentation surgery at such a young age in order correct asymmetrical breasts and an inverted areola.

Malignant hyperthermia syndrome is observed to be a genetic condition. It is very difficult to detect and identify people who are at risk from this condition. Very often the first time it is noticed in an individual is when anesthesia is being administered to the patient. In cases like Stephanie’s the first time was too late.

Since the condition is hereditary, genetic testing and a biopsy of the muscle tissue can be done in order to detect it. This is one reason why plastic surgeons insist on a medical history of the patient during initial consultation. At the Plastic Surgery Institute of California, additional patient screening to determine the patient’s fitness for plastic surgery too is a necessary component of the consultation process.

Administering a drug called dantrolene to the patient displaying symptoms of malignant hyperthermia is the best way to reduce the threat. But one in ten people have been known to succumb to the condition.

Plastic surgery, like any other surgery involves a small percent of risk and this is one fact that cannot be overlooked by the doctor or the patient. The best way of minimizing the risk associated with conditions like malignant hyperthermia is by avoiding stimulant drugs and informing the plastic surgeon of any family history of reactions to general anesthesia.

Visit the Plastic Surgery Institute of California for more help and information.