Parkinson′s Disease and Anaesthesia

Abstract

Parkinson′s disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder due to death of dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra that leads to resting tremor, muscle rigidity, and bradykinesia. Parkinson′s disease is a common disease of elderly patients who present a particular anaesthetic challenge. Good number of patients are newly diagnosed at the time of preanaesthetic examinations. Variety of drugs may be used for symptomatic treatment. Controversies surrounding the use of the newer drugs and possible advances in neurosurgical interventions are discussed. Particular anaesthetic problems in Parkinson′s disease include respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological. Potential drug interactions are described and recommendations are made about suitable anaesthetic technique.

Keywords

• Anaesthesia; Complications; Parkinson′s disease