Steroids and the surgical patient

Effects and mechanisms of perioperative medications on the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal response to surgical injury: A narrative review

The adrenal gland is a vital endocrine organ, and adrenal steroid synthesis and secretion are closely regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in response to various stimuli. Surgery or trauma can activate the HPA axis and induce the secretion of cortisol. Different cortisol responses vary with the grade of surgery. Perioperative medications have the potential to decrease the cortisol level in the body, and both excessive and insufficient cortisol levels after surgery are disadvantageous. The effect of perioperative medications on the HPA response to surgery can be divided into three levels: "adrenal insufficiency (AI)", "stress response inhibition", and "uncertainty". The clinical presentation of AI includes fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, hypotension, hypovolemic shock and prerenal failure, which may result in fatal consequences. Stress response inhibition can reduce postoperative complications, such as pain and cognitive dysfunction. This is protective to patients during perioperative and postoperative periods. The aim of the present review is to shed light on current evidence regarding the exact effects and mechanisms of perioperative medications on the HPA response to surgical injury and provide the applicable guidance on clinical anesthesia.

Variability in Perioperative Steroid Therapy Regimen for Cochlear Implantation as It Relates to Hearing Preservation

HYPOTHESIS

We aimed to identify practice trends and association between physician training and administration of perioperative steroids for cochlear implantation (CI) as it relates to hearing preservation.

BACKGROUND

Perioperative steroid therapy regimens are postulated to protect residual hearing and improve hearing preservation outcomes in CI.

METHODS

A 27-question online survey was developed by the senior authors using the Qualtrics Survey Tool, then distributed via email from September to November 2022 to otolaryngologists specializing in otology or neurotology and who practice in the United States or Canada.

RESULTS

The survey was sent to 463 physicians, 162 (35.0%) of whom completed the survey. One hundred forty-four (31.1%) responses underwent analysis. All physicians administering preoperative steroids (n = 31) prefer preoperative oral prednisone. Of 143 physicians administering intraoperative steroids, 54.5% prefer intraoperative intravenous dexamethasone. More than half (77.6%) of 85 physicians administering postoperative steroids prefer postoperative oral prednisone. Postoperative steroid administration (p < 0.006) and taper utilization (p < 0.041) were greater among physicians who complete greater than 40 CIs annually (n = 47 [71.2%]; n = 30 [49.2%]) than physicians who complete up to 40 CIs annually (n = 37 [48.7%]; n = 20 [31.3%]), respectively. Physicians practicing for 5 to 20 years after residency are more prevalent in using postoperative steroid tapers than physicians practicing for fewer than 5 years after and more than 20 years after residency (n = 37 [51.4%] versus n = 14 [25.5%], p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Consensus is needed about the optimal steroid treatment for CI patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Perioperative Evaluation and Management of Patients on Glucocorticoids

Myriad questions regarding perioperative management of patients on glucocorticoids (GCs) continue to be debated including which patients are at risk for adrenal insufficiency (AI), what is the correct dose and duration of supplemental GCs, or are they necessary for everyone? These questions remain partly unanswered due to the heterogeneity and low quality of data, studies with small sample sizes, and the limited number of randomized trials. To date, we know that although all routes of GC administration can result in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, perioperative adrenal crisis is rare. Correlation between biochemical testing for AI and clinical events is lacking. Some of the current perioperative management recommendations based on daily GC dose and duration of therapy may be difficult to follow in clinical practice. The prospective and retrospective studies consistently report that continuing the daily dose of GCs perioperatively is not associated with a higher risk for adrenal crises in patients with GC-induced AI. Considering that oral GC intake may be unreliable in the early postoperative period, providing the daily GC plus a short course of IV hydrocortisone 25 to 100 mg per day based on the degree of surgical stress seems reasonable. In patients who have stopped GC therapy before surgery, careful assessment of the HPA axis is necessary to avoid an adrenal crisis. In conclusion, our literature review indicates that lower doses and shorter duration of supplemental GCs perioperatively are sufficient to maintain homeostasis. We emphasize the need for well-designed randomized studies on this frequently encountered clinical scenario.

Peri-operative steroid management in the paediatric population

BACKGROUND

Patients with adrenal insufficiency are at risk of adrenal crisis, a potentially life-threatening emergency in the peri-operative period due to their attenuated ability to mount a cortisol response. There is a lack of standardization regarding peri-operative stress-dose glucocorticoids in paediatric clinical practice with the absence of agreed protocols. For the individual patient, the risk of adrenal crisis must be weighed against the potential adverse clinical outcomes associated with unnecessary or supra-physiologic glucocorticoid dosing in susceptible patients. Specific clinical concerns in the paediatric population include osteopenia, growth restriction and increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. This review aimed to identify and evaluate available literature in the field of peri-operative stress-dose glucocorticoids.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted to construct a narrative review.

RESULTS

The outcome of this review identified that paediatric patients, unlike adults, do not show a graded response to surgical stress with implications for glucocorticoid stress dose regimens for general anaesthesia and less invasive surgical procedures. The studies highlight a lack of information on physiological steroid responses to stress situations and differences in the approach to glucocorticoid replacement strategies in the paediatric population.

CONCLUSION

The review identified there is a lack of high-quality paediatric-specific studies evaluating appropriate stress-dose glucocorticoid regimens in paediatric patients with or at risk of adrenal insufficiency. Further research is needed to establish clear evidence-based clinical guidelines for paediatric peri-operative practice regarding steroid stress dosing in adrenal insufficiency. Current knowledge would suggest that a balanced view of risks and benefits should be taken appropriate to the clinical context, to dictate peri-operative stress-dose glucocorticoids use that permits safe perioperative management.

Acute abdomen in the immunocompromised patient: WSES, SIS-E, WSIS, AAST, and GAIS guidelines

Immunocompromised patients are a heterogeneous and diffuse category frequently presenting to the emergency department with acute surgical diseases. Diagnosis and treatment in immunocompromised patients are often complex and must be multidisciplinary. Misdiagnosis of an acute surgical disease may be followed by increased morbidity and mortality. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of surgical disease occur; these patients may seek medical assistance late because their symptoms are often ambiguous. Also, they develop unique surgical problems that do not affect the general population. Management of this population must be multidisciplinary.This paper presents the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES), Surgical Infection Society Europe (SIS-E), World Surgical Infection Society (WSIS), American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST), and Global Alliance for Infection in Surgery (GAIS) joined guidelines about the management of acute abdomen in immunocompromised patients.

Systemic lupus erythematosus in pregnancy: high risk, high reward

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this study was to describe risks of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in pregnancy and the importance of preconception counselling, medication optimization and close surveillance.

RECENT FINDINGS

Advances in care for pregnant patients with SLE have led to improved obstetric outcomes, but maternal and foetal risks continue to be elevated. Conception during periods of disease quiescence and continuation of most medications decrease adverse pregnancy outcomes. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) appears protective against flares in pregnancy, neonatal congenital heart block and preterm birth.

SUMMARY

SLE in pregnancy confers increased maternal and foetal risks, including disease flares, preeclampsia, preterm birth, foetal growth restriction, neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) and congenital heart block. Disease control on an effective medication regimen mitigates many of these risks, but pregnancy in women with SLE remains a high-risk condition requiring multidisciplinary care and an individualized approach to each patient.

Evaluation of different hydrocortisone treatment strategies in transsphenoidal pituitary surgery

Background

Hydrocortisone treatment in transsphenoidal pituitary surgery has been debated. Although several publications advocate restrictive treatment, centers around the world administer stress doses of hydrocortisone in patients with presumed intact cortisol production. Our aim with this analysis was to compare postoperative hypocortisolism in patients who received three different protocols of hydrocortisone therapy during and after surgery.

Method

This was a retrospective observational study. Based on perioperative hydrocortisone dose given, patients were divided in three groups: high dose (HD), intermediate dose (ID), and low dose (LD). Postoperative evaluation of the pituitary function was performed using S-cortisol at day 4 and short Synacthen test (SST) at 6–8 weeks. Patients with ACTH-producing adenomas or preoperative hydrocortisone treatment were excluded.

Result

There was no difference between the groups regarding failure rate of SST. The rate of failed SST (all groups) was 51/186 (27%), 24/74 (32%) in the HD group and 26/74 (35%) and 11/38 (29%) in the ID and LD groups respectively. There was no significant difference between the ID and LD groups regarding S-cortisol at postoperative day 4 regarding serum cortisol level below 200 nmol/L. There was a significant but weak correlation, r_s 0.330 (P < 0.01) between S-cortisol day 4 and SST at 4–6 weeks.

Conclusions

Peri and postoperative hydrocortisone treatment did not affect SST response 6–8 weeks postoperatively, whereas the rate of patients with S-cortisol below 200 nmol/L at postoperative day 4 did. LD hydrocortisone therapy seems to favor a better endogenous production in the early postoperative phase.

Chronic steroid use as an independent risk factor for perioperative complications

BACKGROUND

Corticosteroid use continues to rise nationally. Studies have evaluated the impact of chronic steroid use on surgical outcomes in smaller populations. This study investigated the impact of chronic steroid use on perioperative surgical outcomes in a surgical cohort of more than 5 million surgical patients, using a statistically rigorous methodology.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database was queried 2008-2016 to evaluate chronic steroid use. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and outcomes were compared, using χ² and t test analysis, and then repeated after propensity score matching. Finally, a double-adjustment logistic regression was utilized, yielding odds ratios to assess the effect of chronic steroids on perioperative outcomes within the matched population.

RESULTS

Between 2008 and 2016, a total of 5,244,588 patients met inclusion criteria, of whom 181,901 (3.5%) were taking steroids for a minimum of 30 days before surgery. Patients on chronic steroids had significantly more comorbidities compared with the remaining population. After propensity score matching and double-adjusted logistic regression, chronic steroid use was found to be associated with increased surgical complications and poorer surgical outcomes. Chronic steroid use significantly increased a patient's risk of having a hospital stay longer than 30 days by 19%, risk of readmission within 30 days by 58%, risk of reoperation by 21%, and risk of death by 32%.

CONCLUSION

After controlling for differences in comorbidities and demographics, patients on chronic steroids have significantly poorer perioperative outcomes. Chronic steroid use should be evaluated and, if possible, addressed before surgery, given their significant impact on surgical outcomes.

Perioperative "stress dose" of corticosteroid: Pharmacological and clinical perspective

Various exogenous steroid preparations have been in use for a wide range of indications. We, as an anesthesiologist often encounters a surgical patient receiving chronic steroid therapy. Perioperative use of steroid is associated with major complications such as full-blown adrenal crisis in the perioperative period due to the secondary adrenal insufficiency. Henceforth, comes the role of the perioperative “stress-dose” of steroids to mitigate this rare but potentially fatal complication. There have been opposing views regarding the need and the appropriate dosage of the perioperative steroids. The present review discusses the changing concept of perioperative “stress dose” of corticosteroids, its pharmacokinetics, clinical relevance, and the related controversies such as the need and the appropriate dose.

Subclinical hypothyroidism or central hypothyroidism-The danger of thyroid function misinterpretation

Correct interpretation of thyroid function tests is critical to providing appropriate care to patients with suspected thyroid disease. It is particularly important to distinguish central hypothyroidism from other types due to the potential of concurrent secondary adrenal insufficiency and thus the need for immediate steroid replacement prior to commencing thyroxine.

Microbial biotransformation of bioactive and clinically useful steroids and some salient features of steroids and biotransformation

Steroids are perhaps one of the most widely used group of drugs in present day. Beside the established utilization as immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, progestational, diuretic, sedative, anabolic and contraceptive agents, recent applications of steroid compounds include the treatment of some forms of cancer, osteoporosis, HIV infections and treatment of declared AIDS. Steroids isolated are often available in minute amounts. So biotransformation of natural products provides a powerful means in solving supply problems in clinical trials and marketing of the drug for obtaining natural products in bulk amounts. If the structure is complex, it is often an impossible task to isolate enough of the natural products for clinical trials. The microbial biotransformation of steroids yielded several novel metabolites, exhibiting different activities. The metabolites produced from pregnenolone acetate by Cunning hamella elegans and Rhizopus stolonifer were screened against tyrosinase and cholinesterase showed significant inhibitory activities than the parent compound. Diosgenin and its transformed sarsasapogenin were screened for their acetyl cholinesterase and butyryl cholinesterase inhibitory activities. Sarsasapogenin was screened for phytotoxicity, and was found to be more active than the parent compound. Diosgenin, prednisone and their derivatives were screened for their anti-leishmanial activity. All derivatives were found to be more active than the parent compound. The biotransformation of steroids have been reviewed to a little extent. This review focuses on the biotransformation and functions of selected steroids, the classification, advantages and agents of enzymatic biotransformation and examines the potential role of new enzymatically transformed steroids and their derivatives in the chemoprevention and treatment of other diseases. tyrosinase and cholinesterase inhibitory activities, severe asthma, rheumatic disorders, renal disorders and diseases of inflammatory bowel, skin, gastrointestinal tract.

Perioperative Glucocorticoid Treatment of Soft Tissue Reconstruction in Patients on Long-term Steroid Therapy: The Experience of 6 Cases Using Reversed Posterior Interosseous Flap for Hand Neoplasm Surgery

Introduction

Long-term steroid therapy is associated with increased postoperative morbidity. Whether to use a stress dose of glucocorticoids (GCs) in surgical patients remains controversial. In the present study, we reported our experience in perioperative GC treatment of 6 patients on long-term steroid therapy for autoimmune diseases undergoing hand reconstruction using reversed interosseous flap.

Methods

The reversed interosseous flap reconstructions were performed after local extended resection of hand neoplasms. The patients were all diagnosed with autoimmune diseases and were undergoing long-term steroid therapy. Stress dose of GCs was not given in any case, and all the patients either remained on their baseline maintenance dose or decreased the dose until the morning of the operation day. Hypotension, water-electrolyte imbalance, hypoglycemia, and other symptoms of adrenal insufficiency were carefully assessed. Appearances of flap complications were recorded.

Results

None of the patients developed hypotension or other symptomatic adrenal insufficiency. Flap infection, venous congestion, or complete or partial loss of flap was not observed in any patient. Effusion underneath the flap was developed in only 1 case and was solved by proper drainage.

Conclusions

It is safe, reliable, and versatile to use reversed interosseous flap to repair hand defects in patients on long-term steroid therapy. A stress dose of GCs might not be necessary in this procedure and other equally moderate soft tissue reconstructive surgeries.

Rheumatoid Arthritis, Disease Modifying Agents, and Periprosthetic Joint Infection: What Does a Joint Surgeon Need to Know?

The incidence of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is 1.6× greater than in patients undergoing the same procedure for osteoarthritis. This higher risk "may" be due to the immunosuppressive therapies for RA patients including corticosteroids, such as prednisone, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), such as methotrexate. There is a debate about the role of DMARDs in increasing the incidence of subsequent PJI. Studies show conflicting results, with some demonstrating no significant increase in the rates of PJI and some finding otherwise. The International Consensus Meeting on PJI recommended that DMARDs should be halted prior to an elective total joint arthroplasty based on their half-life. Moreover, the International Consensus Meeting stated that cessation of immunosuppressant medications should be performed in consultation with and under the direction of the treating physician. In this review, we aimed to provide an introduction to the available treatment options and cover the recommendations on the treatment protocols for RA patients who undergo elective total joint arthroplasty.

Perioperative Steroid Management

Perioperative stress-dose steroid administration remains a controversial topic, with recent studies questioning its necessity. We discuss the current literature, largely published in nonanesthesiology journals, and suggest a practical approach to perioperative steroid management.

Perioperative Severe Hypotension in a Patient with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type IIb and Bilateral Adrenalectomies: Time to Review the Evidence for Stress Dose Steroids

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type IIb (MEN IIb) is an endocrine disorder which can manifest with tumors such as pheochromocytomas and neuromas. We present the case of a patient with MEN IIb, after bilateral adrenalectomies, on maintenance steroid replacement, who underwent a neuroma resection and developed severe hypotension. There is persistent controversy regarding the general administration of perioperative “stress dose” steroids for patients with adrenal insufficiency. While the most recent literature suggests that stress dose steroids are unnecessary for secondary adrenal insufficiency, the rarer form of primary adrenal insufficiency always requires supplemental steroids, specifically hydrocortisone, when undergoing surgical procedures.

Adverse neurologic effects of medications commonly used in the intensive care unit

Adverse drug effects often complicate the care of critically ill patients. Therefore, each patient's medical history, maintenance medication, and new therapies administered in the intensive care unit must be evaluated to prevent unwanted neurologic adverse effects. Optimization of pharmacotherapy in critically ill patients can be achieved by considering the need to reinitiate home medications, and avoiding drugs that can decrease the seizure threshold, increase sedation and cognitive deficits, induce delirium, increase intracranial pressure, or induce fever. Avoiding medication-induced neurologic adverse effects is essential in critically ill patients, especially those with neurologic injury.

A systematic approach to the preoperative medical evaluation of adults

The number, age, and medical complexity of patients undergoing elective noncardiac surgery is rising worldwide. Internists, family physicians, and midlevel providers asked to perform preoperative medical evaluations. However, lack of consensus has led to wide variation in practice in what is included and addressed in these evaluations, and the efficacy of these assessments has been debated. The intended purpose of the evaluation seems to be universally accepted as aiming to assess and identify risks associated with the patient's comorbid medical conditions and the specific surgical procedure. The goal is to minimize those risks. Herein, we propose a systematic approach to the preoperative medical evaluation based on the best available evidence and expert opinion, with an emphasis on identifying all potentially pertinent patient- and surgery-specific risk factors.

Anesthesia for the child with cancer

Children with cancer undergo a host of surgeries and procedures that require anesthesia during the various phases of the disease. A safe anesthetic plan includes consideration of the direct effects of tumor, toxic effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, the specifics of the surgical procedure, drug-drug interactions with chemotherapy agents, pain syndromes, and psychological status of the child. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the anesthetic management of the child with cancer, focuses on a systems-based approach to the impact from both tumor and its treatment in children, and presents a discussion of the relevant anesthetic considerations.

Impact of stress dose steroids on the outcomes of restorative proctocolectomy in patients with ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Stress dose steroids are administered during the perioperative period to prevent complications of secondary hypoadrenalism, which can occur after long-term steroid treatment. Steroids also increase postoperative morbidity. Patients with ulcerative colitis often require steroid therapy before definitive surgery and often receive perioperative steroids in a variety of doses.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of stress dose steroid administration on short-term postoperative outcomes after restorative proctocolectomy in patients with ulcerative colitis.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

The investigation took place in a high-volume, specialized colorectal surgery department.

PATIENTS

Patients who had been treated with steroids for ulcerative colitis and underwent a restorative proctocolectomy from January 2009 to July 2011 were identified and categorized into 2 groups based on whether they received stress dose steroids.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Both cohorts were compared for patient demographics, duration of steroid treatment before surgery, and operative and postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine patients received stress dose steroids and 146 patients did not. Stress dose steroids were more frequently administered to patients who were under steroid treatment immediately before restorative proctocolectomy (37.1% versus 10.3%; p < 0.001). A sinus tachycardia developed more frequently in patients who received stress dose steroids during surgery (p = 0.03). One patient in the stress dose steroid group died on postoperative day 25 because of anastomotic leak. Although no patients in either group had an adrenal crisis during surgery, 1 patient in the stress dose steroid group was diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency postoperatively.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by its retrospective and nonrandomized nature.

CONCLUSIONS

Although administration of stress dose steroids is not related to increased postoperative complications, the steroids do not appear to affect adrenal insufficiency outcomes. Patients who were treated with steroids for ulcerative colitis should be monitored carefully in the perioperative and early postoperative periods for signs of adrenal insufficiency, regardless of the steroid regimen used.

Applications of Steroid in Clinical Practice: A Review

Steroids are perhaps one of the most widely used group of drugs in present day anaesthetic practice, sometimes with indication and sometimes without indications. Because of their diverse effects on various systems of the body, there has been renewed interest in the use of steroids in modern day anaesthetic practice. This paper focuses on the synthesis and functions of steroids and risks associated with their supplementation. This paper also highlights the recent trends, relevance, and consensus issues on the use of steroids as adjunct pharmacological agents in relation to anaesthetic practice and intensive care, along with emphasis on important clinical aspects of perioperative usefulness and supplementation.

Intra- and postoperative adverse events in children with nephrotic syndrome requiring surgery under general anesthesia

BACKGROUND

There are few data regarding perioperative adverse events in children with nephrotic syndrome.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to describe the nature and frequency of perioperative adverse events in children with nephrotic syndrome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective study from a large university pediatric hospital. All procedures under general anesthesia in children with nephrotic syndrome between January 1995 and May 2007 were included, with the exception of renal transplantation. Data were collected on demographics, etiology of nephrotic syndrome and related treatments, surgical procedures and anesthetic techniques, and pre- and postoperative treatments. Adverse events occurring during the intraoperative period and up to the fifth postoperative day were recorded.

RESULTS

Data on eight patients who underwent 24 surgical or interventional procedures under general anesthesia over the study period were reviewed. Three patients had steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome and five patients had congenital or infantile nephrotic syndrome. Five patients had progressed to end-stage renal failure requiring dialysis. General anesthesia was performed for: nephrectomy (n = 9), central venous catheter insertion (n = 8), peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion (n = 5), and emergency surgery in two cases (acute intestinal intussusception and hemodialysis catheter insertion). Three patients were receiving aspirin and one anticoagulant therapy. No postoperative thrombosis or infections, bleeding, peripheral edema or ascites, and increase in kalemia were noted. There was no significant postoperative increase in median serum creatinine level.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical procedures were seldom associated with the occurrence of perioperative adverse events. However, larger studies are needed to confirm these results.

Leg weakness in a patient with lumbar stenosis and adrenal insufficiency

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a common spinal disease in the elderly. The cardinal symptom of LSS is neurogenic claudication, but not all patients present with such typical symptom. The clinical symptoms are often confused with symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, musculo-skeletal disease and other medical conditions in elderly patients. In particular, LSS presenting with rapid progression of leg weakness must be distinguished from other combined diseases. We report a case of rapid progressive leg weakness in a patient with LSS and iatrogenic adrenal insufficiency that was induced by obscure health supplement.

Anti-Emetic Doses of Dexamethasone Suppress Cortisol Response in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

The efficacy of dexamethasone alone or in combination with a serotonergic antagonist to prevent nausea and vomiting in laparoscopic cholecystectomy is well established, but few data exist regarding its effects on perioperative cortisol and glucose levels.

Fourteen non-diabetic subjects having elective laparoscopic choleycystectomy and standardised general anaesthesia were randomised to receive 8 mg of intravenous dexamethasone and tropisetron or tropisetron alone. Plasma cortisol and glucose were measured preinduction, at five and 24 hours postoperatively. There was no difference in plasma cortisol at five hours postoperatively in patients who received dexamethasone, but by 24 hours there was marked suppression compared to the control group (P <0.005) to less than 5% of the preoperative value. There was a small but statistically significant elevation in blood glucose at 24 hours (P <0.01) in the dexamethasone-treated group.

In patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, an anti-emetic dose of dexamethasone (8 mg) markedly suppresses plasma cortisol at 24 hours and causes a minor elevation in blood glucose.

Anesthetic considerations for the pediatric oncology patient--part 2: systems-based approach to anesthesia

One of the prices paid for chemo- and radiotherapy of cancer in children is damage to the vulnerable and developing healthy tissues of the body. Such damage can exist clinically or subclinically and can become apparent during active antineoplastic treatment or during remission decades later. Furthermore, effects of the tumor itself can significantly impact the physiologic state of the child. The anesthesiologist who cares for children with cancer or for survivors of childhood cancer should understand what effects cancer and its therapy can have on various organ systems. In part two of this three-part review, we review the anesthetic issues associated with childhood cancer. Specifically, this review presents a systems-based approach to the impact from both tumor and its treatment in children, followed by a discussion of the relevant anesthetic considerations.

How to manage perioperative endocrine insufficiency

Patients with endocrinopathies frequently present to the operating room. Although many of these disorders are managed on a chronic basis, patients may have acute changes in the perioperative period that, if left unrecognized, can have a negative effect on perioperative morbidity and mortality. It is imperative that anesthesiologists understand the implications of the surgical stress response on hormonal flux. This article focuses on the 4 most commonly encountered endocrinopathies: diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and adrenal insufficiency. Specific challenges pertaining to patients with pheochromocytoma are also discussed.

Surgery in the patient with endocrine dysfunction

Patients with preoperative endocrinopathies represent a particular challenge not only to anesthesiologists but also to surgeons and perioperative clinicians. The "endocrine axis" is complex and has multiple feedback loops, some of which are endocrine and paracrine related, and others that are strongly influenced by the surgical stress response. Familiarity with several of the common endocrinopathies facilitates management in the perioperative period. This article focuses on 4 of the most common endocrinopathies: diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and adrenal insufficiency. Perioperative challenges in patients presenting with pheochromocytoma are also discussed.

Surgery in the patient with endocrine dysfunction

Patients with preoperative endocrinopathies represent a particular challenge not only to anesthesiologists but also to surgeons and perioperative clinicians. The "endocrine axis" is complex and has multiple feedback loops, some of which are endocrine and paracrine related, and others that are strongly influenced by the surgical stress response. Familiarity with several of the common endocrinopathies facilitates management in the perioperative period. This article focuses on 4 of the most common endocrinopathies: diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and adrenal insufficiency. Perioperative challenges in patients presenting with pheochromocytoma are also discussed.

Perioperative medical comorbidities in the orthopaedic patient

Evaluation and management of medical comorbidities in the perioperative period can help improve surgical morbidity and mortality. Perioperative evaluation essentially is risk assessment and minimization. Patients undergoing orthopaedic treatment may benefit from temporizing measures to reduce systemic complications associated with some procedures. Patients at increased risk of cardiac ischemia should undergo risk stratification to determine possible perioperative interventions. Use of perioperative medications and/or consultation with specialists can help to address heart murmurs, bacterial endocarditis, prior stenting, heart failure, and hypertension. Patients with severe or unstable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease require the involvement of pulmonary care specialists. Renal failure can require nephrology consultation, particularly in cases of worsening renal function or urinary outflow obstruction. Hematologic considerations include bleeding and clotting. Prophylaxis should be used in patients with risk factors for peptic ulcer, as well as respiratory failure and hypotension. Nutritional status and liver disease also must be monitored and treated preoperatively. Orthopaedic diabetic patients should be placed on modified oral hypoglycemic or insulin regimens; recalcitrant cases merit consultation. Effective communication among all members of the patient's caregiving team is paramount.

The rheumatic causes of elbow instability

Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common cause of elbow instability, but other causes include other erosive arthritides and noninflammatory diseases. Surgical consultation should be obtained for refractory pain or disability, or when physical examination or imaging reveals instability, erosions, or impending pathologic fracture. Medical management for rheumatoid arthritis includes early treatment and combination therapy, including biologic response modifiers. Current recommendations for rheumatic medicines, including perioperative use, are discussed.

Therapies for adrenal insufficiency

Adrenal insufficiency is a life-threatening disorder. In the treatment of adrenal insufficiency, it is essential to administer the optimal medication at the optimal dose. Glucocorticoids are the main therapeutic approach in all forms of adrenal insufficiency. The recommended protocol for maintenance therapy is 15-25 mg of hydrocortisone, divided into two or three separate doses. Patients with primary adrenal insufficiency generally receive mineralocorticoid replacement comprised of fludrocortisone 0.05-0.2 mg/day. Recently, dehydroepiandrosterone has been proposed as a new therapeutic approach, despite the lack of strong evidence for beneficial effects. Additional glucocorticoid supplementation should be administered in stressful states. During critical illness, inadequate or no temporary increase in the dose of the replacement glucocorticoid can lead to acute adrenal failure. When acute adrenal failure occurs, it becomes necessary to administer intravenous hydrocortisone.

Assessment and therapy of selected endocrine disorders

Diabetes remains the most commonly encountered endocrinopathy with the incidence of type 2 doubling in the past decade. The prevalence of diabetes is projected to continue to increase dramatically over the next several decades unless major public health initiatives are successful in stemming this growth. Both type I and 2 diabetics more frequently require surgical and critical care than their non-diabetic counterparts. Type 1 and 2 diabetics also sustain greater peri-operative morbidity and mortality. Careful preoperative assessment and appropriate perioperative intervention may limit this. There is increasing evidence that maintenance of normal blood glucose in the perioperative period and during critical illness is beneficial for diabetic and non-diabetic patients. More data will hopefully be forthcoming to substantiate recent reports and identify the mechanisms of improved outcome. Thyroid disease remains a commonly encountered pathology that is more readily identified and controlled in the modern era of radioimmune assays of thyroid hormone and successful medical and surgical therapies. Severe hypothyroidism and thyroid storm are associated with significant increases in perioperative morbidity and mortality. Recognition of these entities or those at risk for developing them post operatively is crucial in initiating timely and effective therapy. Primary Al is uncommon, but results in glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid deficiency. Tertiary Al is far more common, most often secondary to iatrogenic therapy with exogenous glucocorticoids for the management of chronic diseases such as connective tissue disorders, anti-rejection regimes, and severe asthma. Glucocorticoid replacement or supplementation is needed on a case-by-case basis and should be individualized based on chronic steroid dose, duration, and stress of the surgical procedure. Perioperative steroid dosing regimes now recommend lower doses for shorter periods than previously suggested. More recently Al has been recognized in two populations, elderly patients undergoing major surgery and a subgroup of patients with septic shock. Timely diagnosis using synthetic ACTH stimulation testing and stress glucocorticoid, and possibly mineralocorticoid therapy, seems to reverse these processes and improve recovery. Although uncommon, patients with pheochromocytoma who undergo open or laparoscopic resections remain diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Perioperative outcome seems to have improved, in part, related to newer therapies and less invasive surgeries when indicated. The appropriate preoperative assessment and management of patients with various endocrinopathies is important to optimize outcome and limit avoidable complications. Hopefully additional evidence based guidelines will be forth-coming particularly in caring for the ever increasingly encountered perioperative diabetic.

Current trends in preoperative patient evaluation and management for podiatric surgeons

In preparation for elective foot and ankle surgery, the podiatric surgeon often will refer the patient for a preoperative evaluation. Surgeons rely on the input of that consultant to provide a determination as to the operative risk for the patient. This article reviews the fundamental parts of the preoperative evaluation, perioperative patient management, and recent changes and trends within this arena.

Corticosteroids and anesthesia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

For decades, anesthesiologists and surgeons have prophylactically provided 'stress steroids' to patients with presumed adrenocortical suppression. Other indications for glucocorticoids have included the suppression of cerebral or airway edema, the inhibition of systemic inflammatory responses to cardiopulmonary bypass, and the treatment of shock states possibly associated with adrenocortical insufficiency. Some recent studies have either restated or challenged the conventional supraphysiological doses of 'stress steroids', while others have investigated the efficacy of glucocorticoids in improving various aspects of postoperative recovery.

RECENT FINDINGS

In 2001, Jabbour summarized the normative rationale and dose regimen for stress-dose steroids in patients who have been receiving corticosteroids. A few months later, Brown and Buie concluded from their literature review that such patients can be safely managed with only physiologic or maintenance glucocorticoid administration. A torrent of reports on the antiemetic effects of dexamethasone generally indicate that this drug does reduce the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, with somewhat delayed but prolonged efficacy, and acts synergistically with 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Other authors have studied the administration of corticosteroids to patients undergoing major abdominal and other operations, and have found beneficial effects on various complications.

SUMMARY

While the conventional practice concerning 'stress steroids' is probably harmless and possibly beneficial, similar benefits might be seen with lower prophylactic doses. Alternatively, new uses for these old agents are arising, and may enable us to improve the convalescence of larger numbers of our patients.