Anaesthesia for Laparoscopic Abdominal Surgery in a Morbidly Obese Female with Hypothyroidism and Hypertension: A Case Report

Abstract

Obesity is characterised by a body weight that surpasses the expected or ideal weight by over 10%, considering factors such as height, age, body build, and sex. Another way to define obesity is based on body fat content: a male is considered obese if body fat exceeds 25% of his total weight, while a female is considered obese if body fat exceeds 30%. Abdominal obesity, prevalent in 40% of women in India, poses significant challenges in the realm of anaesthesia, particularly during laparoscopic abdominal surgeries. The co-existence of morbid obesity, hypothyroidism, and hypertension present intricate medical conditions that demand precise management. During the surgical procedure, issues related to large intraabdominal tumours and airway maintenance impact respiratory and circulatory dynamics. Notably, intraoperative challenges, including bronchospasm, hypotension, and respiratory acidosis, were addressed to ensure the patient's well-being and a successful surgical outcome. The present case report provides insights into the comprehensive management of high-risk patients undergoing laparoscopic abdominal surgery. It underscores the significance of tailored anaesthesia strategies to mitigate complications and ensure a favourable postoperative recovery. This report presents the case of a 59-year-old female with obesity (BMI: 39.6 kg/m2), hypothyroidism, and hypertension who underwent laparoscopic abdominal surgery and discusses managing intraoperative challenges, such as bronchospasm, hypotension, and respiratory acidosis, and the postoperative care for successful patient recovery.

Keywords

• difficult airway
• general anaesthesia
• obesity
• systemic diseases