Passmed Cards Flashcards
What is malignant hyperthermia?
A type of severe reaction that occurs to some general anaesthetic agents. Symptoms include muscle rigidity, fever and tachycardia, tachypnoea
Thought to occur in susceptible patients with genetic defects.
What features characterise malignant hyperthermia?
Muscle rigidity and hyperthermia
What agents can cause malignant hyperthermia?
Halothane
Suxamethonium
What enzyme is raised in malignant hyperthermia?
CK is raised
What is the management for malignant hyperthermia?
Supportive- active cooling, keep hydrated
Dantrolene (muscle relaxant)
What are some complications of malignant hyperthermia?
Muscle rigidity causes rhabdomyolysis which can lead to renal injury
Breakdown also causes release of potassium leading to elevated serum levels
What is the treatment for malignant hyperthermia?
Dantrolene 2.5 mg/kg and repeat as necessary
How long should patients be receive VTE prophylaxis after an elective hip replacement?
LMWH for 28 days with anti-embolic stockings
LMWH for 10 days followed by aspirin for a further 28 days
Rivaroxaban
How long should patients receive VTE prophylaxis for after an elective knee replacement?
LMWH for 14 days + Stockings till discharge
Aspirin for 14 days
Rivaroxaban
Following a fragility fracture, how long should patients with fractures of the pelvis, hip or femur receive VTE prophylaxis for?
LMWH or Fondaparinux
Till no longer have significantly reduced mobility relative to their normal or anticipated mobility
Should women take their OCP/HRT before surgery?
No before elective surgery they should be advised to stop ot for at least 4 weeks prior
How soon after hip replacement surgery do NICE recommend starting LMWH?
6-12 hours
