Anesthesia for surgery in an infant with DiGeorge syndrome

Abstract

Some of the problems presented by patients with DiGeorge syndrome who also require surgery are outlined. It is important to continually evaluate the patient for possible hypocalcemia, as well as for the presence of cardiovascular anomalies, possible airway difficulties, and sepsis. Ionized calcium determinations must be available quickly and repetitively. Perioperative concerns include treating hypocalcemia aggravated by hyperventilation or blood transfusion. Attending to the possibility of sepsis requires treatment at the earliest opportunity. A case is described.