Frequently Asked Questions Q: What precautions should be taken when an LP requires anesthesia for a medical procedure?
Anytime that anesthesia is required for an LP, the anesthesiologist should become informed regarding the patient’s condition, the patient’s medical history and published recommendations on anesthesia and dwarfism. Though many recommendations will vary depending on an individual’s diagnosis and medical history, there are some general recommendations/considerations that the anesthesiologist and surgeon should be aware of: -Any previous complications for the patient with anesthesia -Cervical spine films (flexion and extension) to assess the airway and potential instability and or spinal compression. -The patient’s neurological history. The patient, especially if a child, should have a neurology evaluation prior to surgery if one has not been done within the last year. -Intubation should be performed without forced neck hyperextension -Weight (as opposed to age or height) should be used to determine size of endotracheal tube and amounts of drugs given. -Direct bronchoscopic visualization s
