How to optimize the perioperative care of patients with orphan diseases: what the anesthesiologist needs to know

Despite a very low individual prevalence, rare or orphan diseases are estimated to collectively affect as much as 6-8% of the general population. These diseases provide a challenge to anesthetic delivery because of the lack of evidence to guide optimal management.

The expansion of information technology has made facts about individual orphan diseases easier to find. Several reputable websites, hosted variously by anesthetic societies, rare disease organizations, and government agencies, provide information about rare diseases and anesthetic management.

Improved access to resources of knowledge may allow for more informed anesthetic management of orphan diseases. The combination of a thorough review of existing knowledge about individual diseases and a structured anesthetic assessment may assist in the delivery of well tolerated anesthetic care of rare conditions.