Anesthetic Considerations for a Patient with Edwards Syndrome Undergoing Extensive Spinal Surgery

Title

Anesthetic Considerations for a Patient with Edwards Syndrome Undergoing Extensive Spinal Surgery

Author

1. Geetha Joseph, Student, Caribbean Medical University, Curaçao
2. Alejandra Ferrari, Professor, Caribbean Medical University, Curaçao

Abstract

This review article addresses the anesthetic management of patients with Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18) undergoing extensive spinal surgery. Edwards Syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by multiple congenital anomalies, including cardiovascular defects, respiratory issues, and musculoskeletal deformities, posing significant challenges in perioperative care. Key considerations include a comprehensive preoperative evaluation focusing on cardiovascular and respiratory assessments, such as echocardiography and pulmonary function tests. Intraoperative management requires advanced monitoring to maintain hemodynamic stability and tailored anesthetic techniques to ensure adequate ventilation and fluid balance. Multimodal analgesia strategies are essential for adequate pain control while minimizing respiratory depression. Postoperative care involves close monitoring in an intensive care setting to manage potential complications. The article emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, integrating the expertise of anesthesiologists, cardiologists, pulmonologists, and surgeons to address the complex needs of these patients and achieve optimal surgical outcomes.

Keywords

Conclusion

The anesthetic management of patients with Edwards Syndrome undergoing extensive spinal surgery poses significant challenges due to their complex medical conditions. Ensuring patient safety and optimizing outcomes require a comprehensive preoperative assessment, meticulous intraoperative monitoring, and a tailored anesthetic plan. Effective pain management, careful ventilation strategies, and vigilant fluid management are crucial. Multidisciplinary collaboration involving anesthesiologists, cardiologists, pulmonologists, and surgeons is essential to address the diverse needs of these patients. A coordinated approach ensures the best possible outcomes for these high-risk cases, highlighting the importance of teamwork and detailed planning in perioperative care.

Author Contrubution

The author confirms sole responsibility for all stages of the study, including design, data collection, analysis, and manuscript writing

Funding

No grants from public, commercial, or non-profit funding agencies supported the research, authorship, or publication of this article.

Conflict of Interest

The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Data Sharing Statement

There are no data available for sharing in this work.

Software And Tools Use

This study does not pertain to any software or tools usage

Acknowledgements

My gratitude goes to those who assisted in this study and manuscript preparation, and to the anonymous reviewers for their constructive insights.