My surgeon’s office asked if I am allergic to anesthesia in preparation for my surgery. How do I know whether or not I am? Are there tests?
Answer:
What your plastic surgeon’s office is actually trying to find out is if you are at risk for MH, or malignant hyperthermia. The most important question is whether you or a family member has had complications from anesthesia in the past. Malignant hyperthermia is a very serious condition that may affect a person during a general anesthetic. Fortunately, it is very rare, occurring anywhere between 1 in 5000 to 1 in 65,000. It is likely closer to the 1 in 65,000. It is caused by a genetic mutation that is inherited. When a patient undergoing a plastic surgery procedure under general anesthesia, it is important that the procedure be performed in certified facility. Part of the certification process makes sure that the facility is prepared to handle an emergency with the proper medication needed to treat malignant hyperthermia.
Posted by Dr. Bustillo