Myasthenia Gravis: Towards A Safer Anesthesia Technique. Clinical Experience And Review Of Literature.

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a disease with many implications for the safe administration of anesthesia and involves considerable morbidity and mortality. Thymectomy is a common surgical procedure in patients with myasthenia gravis. We have here described an anesthesia technique involving continuation of preoperative anticholinesterase, use of non-paralyzing technique (i.e. avoidance of muscle relaxants), and use of ultra-short acting anesthetics. This technique was safe and effective in all of our 8 patients who underwent trans-sternal thymectomy. All our patients were extubated on table following administration of intravenous anticholinesterase and anticholinergic drugs. There was no postoperative morbidity or mortality. None of our patients needed ventilatory assistance in the postoperative period.

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