Coronary artery bypass surgery in Guillain Barre syndrome

Omer Ashraf1, Hasanat Sharif

  • 1Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.

Insights

Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) patients can safely undergo major surgery like coronary artery bypass grafting. This case study demonstrates successful cardiac surgery under general anesthesia in a GBS patient, addressing surgical hesitations.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Cardiology
  • Anesthesiology

Background:

  • Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting peripheral nerves.
  • Patients with GBS often face surgical hesitancy due to potential complications under general anesthesia.
  • Established acute phase morbidity and mortality associated with GBS necessitate careful management.

Observation:

  • This case report details a GBS patient requiring major cardiovascular intervention.
  • The patient underwent complex coronary artery grafting surgery.
  • Cardiopulmonary bypass and general anesthesia were successfully employed.

Findings:

  • Successful major coronary artery grafting was performed in a patient with Guillain Barre Syndrome.
  • The anesthetic and surgical management were well-tolerated.
  • This demonstrates the feasibility of major surgical procedures in GBS patients.

Implications:

  • This case challenges the traditional hesitance towards major surgery in GBS patients.
  • It suggests that with careful planning, GBS patients can benefit from necessary surgical interventions.
  • Further research into anesthetic protocols for GBS patients undergoing major surgery is warranted.