Review Note

Last Update: 03/30/2025 10:26 PM

Current Deck: ACG Part 2::Plastic Surgery and Burns

New Card (Unpublished)

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Field Change Suggestions:
SS_PB 1.1 Describe the physiological principles relevant to optimising blood flow to tissue flaps, including
The integrated cardiovascular responses to anaesthesia and a central neuraxial block
Effects of Anaesthesia on Cardiovascular Function
  • Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) Depression: Causes vasodilation, bradycardia, and reduced contractility, leading to reduced cardiac output (CO) and hypotension.
  • Reduced Baroreceptor Sensitivity: Impaired ability to maintain blood pressure, leading to potential hypotension and reduced tissue perfusion.
  • Decreased Cardiac Output: Due to reduced preload, afterload, and myocardial contractility.
Effects of Central Neuraxial Block
  • Sympathetic Blockade: Blocks sympathetic outflow below the level of the block, causing vasodilation, hypotension, and reduced preload.
  • Hypotension: Decreased systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and venous pooling can reduce cardiac output and perfusion pressure, impacting tissue flap viability.
  • Redistribution of Blood Volume: Blood pools in central veins, reducing flow to peripheral tissues (including flaps).
Maintaining Perfusion to Tissue Flaps
  • Fluid Resuscitation: Increase preload to counteract venous pooling and restore perfusion pressure.
  • Vasopressors: Use of phenylephrine or norepinephrine to restore SVR and maintain blood pressure.
  • Heart Rate Management: If bradycardia occurs, use anticholinergics (e.g., atropine) to increase heart rate.
  • Positioning: Elevate flaps to improve venous return and reduce venous congestion.
  • Temperature Control: Prevent hypothermia, as it may cause vasoconstriction and reduce perfusion.
  • Continuous Monitoring: Regularly assess blood pressure, heart rate, and flap perfusion for early signs of compromised circulation.