Canadian Journal of Anesthesia, Vol 7, 374-378, Copyright © 1960 by Canadian Anesthesiologists' Society

The Management of Acute Hypoxia

¹ Department of Anaesthesia, University of Saskatchewan and University Hospital, Saskatoon, Sask.

The management of acute hypoxia in its more severe forms is based primarily upon the control of cerebral oedema. With the advent of a clinically useful form of urea, all agents previously employed for this purpose have become obsolete. The control of cerebral oedema shortens coma and increases survival. Hypothermia is a further valuable adjunct which supplements the action of area, reduces oxygen demand by injured tissues, and controls hyperpyrexia. In all other regards the management of the patient, unconscious from hypoxia, is identical to that which applies generally to the care of the unconscious patient. If hypoxia has not resulted in coma, care must be taken to interpret correctly post-hypoxjc restlessness, and depressant drugs must be avoided.

The prognosis should always be guarded. The electroencephalogram is a valuable aid in assessing the extent of cerebral impairment. Early resumpton of spontaneous respiration and stability of cardiovascular function in the post-hypoxic period are favourable signs, but are not of absolute prognostic value.

Note:

Presented at the Meeting of the Western Divisions, Canadian Anaesthetists' Society at Victoria, B.C., April 28–30, 1960.