Splenectomy in a patient with chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura with critical thrombocytopenia, an anesthetic challenge

Abstract

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura, also termed as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is an acquired disorder in which there is immune mediated destruction of platelets .Here we describe the perioperative management of a case of chronic ITP undergoing splenectomy. Anesthetic management of the patient with ITP includes general anesthesia, avoiding NSAIDs and platelet lowering drugs, transfusing platelets, avoiding airway trauma and watching for hemorrhagic complications.