Anesthetic management of the patient with hyperthyroidism

Abstract

Anesthetic management of the hyperthyroid patient who cannot be rendered euthyroid prior to operation is based on an understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease, including thyroadrenal relationships. Antithyroid drugs, adrenergic blocking agents, iodine, and corticosteroids are essential pharmacotherapeutic agents. The patient must be carefully monitored and mechanical devices and drugs for treating thyroid storm must be readily available before anesthesia for any such patient is undertaken. With careful attention to all these details, the anesthesiologist should be able to provide safe and pleasant anesthesia for the hyperthyroid patient.