Complications with massive sacrococcygeal tumor resection on a premature neonate

Abstract

Resection of large sacrococcygeal teratomas (SCT) in neonates can pose many anesthetic challenges. The pathophysiology of the SCT determines the varying management. We present a case report of a 34-week newborn with a massive Altman type 3 SCT. The surgery was delayed 2 days because of hyperkalemia; however, as a result of continued tumor lysis the patient's condition had worsened with little improvement of the potassium level. During the surgery, the patient had issues of bleeding needing massive transfusion. Ventilation was also difficult at times because of the massive tumor resting on the chest, resulting in respiratory acidosis. We also had difficulty in maintaining the temperature. This patient did well after the surgery and was discharged home. We address here the anesthetic issues involved in the perioperative care management of a premature infant with a massive SCT. © 2010 Japanese Society of Anesthesiologists.