ANESTHESIA FOR NONCARDIAC SURGERY IN THE POST-CARDIAC TRANSPLANT PATIENT

As survival and quality of life continue to improve for cardiac transp lant recipients, the number of patients with functioning heart transpl ants who present for surgery continues to increase. The conditions for which surgery may be required, the specific problems relating to anae sthesia and the necessary measures which should be taken to ensure an uncomplicated clinical course are discussed. A clear understanding of the physiology and pharmacology of the denervated heart is essential f or these patients to undergo safely anaesthesia and surgery.