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Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Halogenated Agent Delivery in Porcine Model of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome via an Intensive Care Unit Type Device
Published on: September 24, 2020
Desflurane, malignant hyperthermia, and release of compartment syndrome
Anna A Uskova1, Bryan P Matusic, Barbara W Brandom
1Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Abstract:
We describe a case of suspected malignant hyperthermia in a healthy 20-yr-old man. The patient underwent urgent release of upper extremity compartment syndrome as a result of traumatic vascular injury. After 3 h of general anesthesia with desflurane, he developed a hypermetabolic state (hypercarbia, hyperthermia, hyperkalemia, and metabolic acidosis), consistent with the diagnosis of malignant hyperthermia. Cardiovascular instability coincided with reperfusion of the injured extremity. Treatment with dantrolene and supporting measures restored cardiovascular stability. Three days later he underwent a successful second surgery under regional block with total IV anesthesia.
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