[Challenges in perioperative management of morbidly obese patients: how to prevent complications.].
OBJECTIVE
The incidence of morbid obesity has significantly increased in recent years, especially in developed countries. Excellent results of the surgical treatment of such condition have raised the interest in the anesthetic management of such patients. This study aimed at emphasizing critical issues for anesthesiologists dealing with morbidly obese patients.


BACKGROUND
Cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine and metabolic changes have been frequently associated to obesity and may cause significant clinical repercussions in the perioperative period of such patients. Some practical anesthetic issues are discussed in this review.


CONCLUSIONS
In addition to emphasizing most significant and frequent complications and their prevention, the importance of PEEP and adequate tidal volumes is also highlighted.
Auler Junior
José Otávio Costa
JO
Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo.
Giannini
Cindy Galvão
CG
Saragiotto
Daniel Fernandes
DF