[Hemodynamic aspects of continuous-infusion ketamine anesthesia for visceral surgery in aged patients]

The results obtained in a haemodynamic study carried out in 9 elderly patients subjected to ketaminic anaesthesia in continuous perfusion for visceral surgery operations are reported and compared with those observed, under the same conditions, in 9 patients aged less than 65. Stress is laid on the stimulating cardiovascular action observed during induction and the lower myocardial reactivity of elderly patients by comparison with younger ones. Mention is also made of the stability of haemodynamic values throughout the period of the operation. There was, however, a tendency to bradycardia and the constant onset of systemic arterial hypotension during the initial period. These are interpreted as phenomena due to the cardiovascular lability of senile age. The effectiveness of ketamine's cardiocirculatory action is, however, a positive factor in the light of the haemodynamic findings obtained during anaesthesia with Althesin and Fentanyl. It is concluded that the anaesthesia technique employed has some positive aspects that make it particularly indicated in states of acute or chronic cardiocirculatory lability, for visceral surgery operations also.