Malignant Hyperthermia: A Management Guide for Perioperative Personnel

This course provides an in-depth overview of the pathophysiology of MH, emphasizing genetic susceptibility, triggering agents such as volatile anesthetics and succinylcholine, and the biochemical cascade that leads to hypermetabolism, acidosis, hyperkalemia, and rhabdomyolysis. Emphasis is placed on identifying early warning signs, initiating emergent protocols, administering dantrolene, and coordinating interdisciplinary responses in perioperative settings. The course also includes guidance on postoperative monitoring, documentation, patient and family education, and recommendations for future anesthetic care.

Topics covered include:

• Understanding Malignant Hyperthermia: Overview of the genetic basis, prevalence, and risk factors associated with MH susceptibility.
• Triggering Agents and Pathophysiology: Anesthetic drugs and their impact on calcium regulation in skeletal muscle leading to hypermetabolic state.
• Clinical Presentation: Early and late signs of MH, including tachycardia, hypercapnia, muscle rigidity, elevated temperature, and arrhythmias.
• Crisis Management Protocols: Immediate steps for intervention, including discontinuation of triggering agents, hyperventilation, dantrolene administration, and cooling measures.
• Dantrolene Use and Preparation: Dosing, reconstitution, adverse effects, and inventory requirements in operative settings.
• Post-Crisis Management: Monitoring for complications such as renal failure, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and electrolyte imbalance.
• MH Emergency Carts and Simulation Training: Recommendations for equipment, checklists, and readiness drills to ensure staff preparedness.
• Reporting and Follow-Up: Documentation requirements, genetic counseling referrals, and coordination of future anesthetic plans for MH-susceptible individuals.

Completion Requirements:

To receive full CE credit, participants must:

• Register for the course.
• Complete all course content.
• Score 70% or higher on the post-test.
• Submit a completed course evaluation.

Participants may access downloadable tools including MH emergency response flowcharts and dantrolene preparation guides.

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: No relevant financial relationships have been disclosed by the planners or faculty.
• Commercial Support: This course was developed without commercial sponsorship.
• Non-Endorsement: Accreditation does not imply endorsement of any specific products or companies.
• Off-Label Product Use: The course includes approved uses of dantrolene but may reference off-label applications consistent with clinical practice guidelines.