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Updated: May 28, 2026
14:39
Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 4, 2010
Anesthesia in children with asthma and rhinitis.
F Franceschini1, F M De Benedictis, D G Peroni
1University Hospital, Ancona, Italy. allped@libero.it
International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology
|October 22, 2011
Summary
Asthma management during surgery is crucial. While severe perioperative bronchospasm is rare, it can be life-threatening, requiring careful preoperative assessment and prompt management.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pulmonology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Asthma incidence is rising globally, yet mortality rates are declining due to enhanced medical care.
- Severe perioperative bronchospasm, though infrequent in asthmatic patients undergoing anesthesia, poses a significant life-threatening risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the critical aspects of preoperative asthma assessment.
- To emphasize the importance of identifying and avoiding perioperative triggers for bronchospasm.
- To detail strategies for preventing and managing acute bronchospasm during anesthesia.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive preoperative evaluation including specialized medical history and physical examination.
- Pulmonary function testing to assess asthma severity and control.
- Identification and avoidance of potential bronchospasm triggers in the perioperative period.
Main Results:
- Systemic corticosteroids and bronchodilators are often indicated to mitigate inflammation and bronchoconstriction.
- Despite preventative measures, acute bronchospasm can still occur, particularly during anesthetic induction and emergence.
Conclusions:
- Meticulous preoperative assessment and planning are essential for managing asthmatic patients.
- Prompt and systematic management of acute bronchospasm is vital for patient safety during surgical procedures.
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