Big Patients, Big Worries

Abstract

Program Description: The obesity epidemic is resulting in more obese adults and children presenting for routine surgery. Obese patients present additional risks related to surgery and perioperative care, and may experience additional morbidity and mortality. This session will focus on reviewing the unique requirements of obese patients to ensure quality care. We will review obesity as an independent factor for increased morbidity, informed consent, preoperative assessments; intraoperative concerns, including anesthesia, airway, medication dosing and ergonomics; postoperative needs including deep venous thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis, wound healing and management of tracheotomy, and difficult airway concerns. Views of anesthesiologists and adult, pediatric, and private practitioners will be discussed. Educational Objectives: 1) Describe the preoperative considerations of the obese patient, including anesthesia clearance, management of comorbid conditions and thorough surgical counseling and planning. 2) Recognize intraoperative risks, including anesthesia concerns, medication dosing, positioning, ergonomics, and DVT prophylaxis. 3) Analyze the postoperative course of the obese patient, including tracheotomy and airway management, wound healing and complications, DVT prevention, perioperative infection, and indications for intensive care unit (ICU) admissions.