Rhabdomyolysis in the patient undergoing head and neck surgery

Rhabdomyolysis is increasingly recognized as a cause of acute renal failure. Though often the result of extensive trauma, rhabdomyolysis may also appear in the postoperative period. We describe three recent cases in patients undergoing head and neck surgery. Early diagnosis is based on laboratory and clinical examination. Treatment aimed at renal hyperperfusion with hydration and diuretics may prevent nephrotoxic reaction.