Anesthesia Considerations for ACE Inhibitors and Heart Failure
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary concern regarding perioperative ACE inhibition?

  • Potential for severe intraoperative hypotension, especially in hypovolemic patients. (correct)
  • Elevated risk of bradycardia and heart block during anesthesia.
  • Increased risk of postoperative hypertension due to rebound effect.
  • Reduced effectiveness of vasopressors in maintaining blood pressure.

Angiotensin receptor (AT) blockers primarily function by which mechanism?

  • Increasing the production of angiotensin II.
  • Inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
  • Competitively inhibiting the action of angiotensin II at the AT1 receptor. (correct)
  • Directly stimulating AT1 receptors to increase blood pressure.

Which surgical procedures are classified as intermediate risk according to the ACC/AHA guidelines?

  • Aortic and other major vascular surgeries.
  • Superficial skin biopsies and cataract removals.
  • Peripheral vascular surgeries.
  • Intraperitoneal and intrathoracic surgeries. (correct)

How should hypotension related to ACE inhibitors or AT blockers typically be managed during anesthesia?

<p>Conventional vasopressors/sympathomimetics and cautious intravascular volume expansion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which clinical scenario is blood pressure most likely to become angiotensin-dependent?

<p>In hypovolemic patients, especially during anesthesia. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the underlying mechanisms of ventricular dysfunction in heart failure?

<p>Death or dysfunction of cardiac myocytes and longstanding pressure or volume overload. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the Frank-Starling law initially compensate for decreased myocardial contractility in heart failure?

<p>By increasing end-diastolic volume and pressure to restore myocardial contractility. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the long-term consequence of sustained volume increase in the context of the Frank-Starling mechanism in heart failure?

<p>Cardiac remodeling, including myocardial hypertrophy and chamber enlargement. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following ECG findings would be LEAST likely in a patient with heart failure?

<p>Normal ECG (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is heart failure the only major cardiovascular condition increasing in prevalence?

<p>Advancements in treating other cardiovascular diseases, leading to an aging population. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of heart failure, what is the significance of sympathetic nervous system activation?

<p>It is essential for maintaining circulation in patients with a vulnerable myocardium. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with an LVEF of 30% is undergoing surgery. Based on the information, they are at an increased risk of what?

<p>Increased risk of perioperative mortality and morbidity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the severity of a patient's heart failure, surgical risk, and perioperative risk?

<p>Perioperative risk is proportional to both the severity of the patient’s heart failure and the surgical risk. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is echocardiography considered a key investigation in heart failure?

<p>It allows assessment of myocardial dysfunction severity and may diagnose the cause. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A 60-year-old patient with a history of hypertension and coronary artery disease is scheduled for elective hip replacement surgery. Pre-operative assessment reveals an ejection fraction of 35% and mild dyspnea on exertion. Which of the following is the MOST important consideration regarding their perioperative risk?

<p>The patient's risk is related to the severity of heart failure in conjunction with the surgical procedure. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the long-term treatment of heart failure, what is the primary target of medical management?

<p>The vicious neurohumoral cycle of RAA system activation, decreasing cardiac output and cardiac remodelling (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A clinician is considering using transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) on a patient with suspected heart failure. According to the information, what is a limitation of TOE in this context?

<p>It gives no additional information over transthoracic imaging. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with long-standing heart failure develops increased shortness of breath and leg swelling. Which physiological adaptation is MOST likely contributing to these symptoms?

<p>Myocardial hypertrophy and chamber enlargement. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor most significantly affects the accuracy of LVEF calculation?

<p>The operator's skill and experience (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with oedema but denies dyspnoea or fatigue. How might this presentation influence the approach to their diagnosis?

<p>The patient should still be evaluated for heart failure because presentations vary. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which situation might transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) be considered over transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) for a patient with suspected heart failure?

<p>When transthoracic sonographic windows are poor. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is regular monitoring of renal function recommended for patients on ACE inhibitors?

<p>To detect early signs of ACE-inhibitor-induced acute renal failure. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the primary concern with perioperative use of ACE inhibitors related to renal function?

<p>ACE-inhibitor-induced acute renal failure due to reduced glomerular afferent arteriolar blood flow. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might intravenous beta-blockers be considered for patients who are NPO?

<p>To maintain beta-blockade when prolonged fasting is anticipated. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of heart failure management, what is the established consensus regarding long-term beta-blocker treatment during the perioperative period?

<p>Withdrawing long-term beta-blocker treatment is harmful. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of a blood pressure-dependent GFR in a patient treated with ACE inhibitors?

<p>A vicious cycle of accumulation and further hypotension, potentially leading to renal failure. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios would warrant considering the cessation of ACE inhibitor therapy?

<p>Significant fluid or blood loss is anticipated. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In addition to metoprolol and bisoprolol, which other beta-blocker is recommended for use in chronic heart failure?

<p>Carvedilol (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the rationale for considering nitrate and hydralazine therapy as a substitute for ACE inhibitors?

<p>To provide similar vasodilation effects while avoiding the renal risks associated with ACE inhibitors. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the MOST significant risk factor for myocardial infarction following major vascular surgery, based on the information available?

<p>Pre-existing cardiac conditions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the ACC/AHA 2005 guideline update?

<p>Diagnosis and management of chronic heart failure in adults. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the European Society of Cardiology, what is the main subject of their expert consensus document?

<p>The role of beta-blockers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the study by Metra et al. (2002), what aspect of heart failure treatment was investigated?

<p>The impact of beta-blocker therapy on the hemodynamic response to inotropic agents. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does chronic treatment with metoprolol or carvedilol affect the hemodynamic response to inotropic agents like dobutamine?

<p>It reduces the effectiveness of dobutamine, potentially requiring higher doses. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with severe heart failure is undergoing a non-cardiac surgery. Which of the following strategies would be LEAST appropriate for maintaining hemodynamic stability during the perioperative period?

<p>Discontinuing all inotropic support to minimize long-term risks during surgery. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient on chronic digoxin therapy is scheduled for emergency surgery. Which of the following is the MOST important consideration regarding their digoxin management?

<p>Close monitoring of serum electrolytes and digoxin concentrations is necessary, whether continuing or stopping therapy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with Stage D heart failure experiences severe hypotension following induction of general anesthesia. What is the MOST likely underlying cause related to their heart failure?

<p>Compensatory sympathetic tone that maintains cardiac output. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When considering regional anesthesia for a patient with heart failure, which factor is MOST crucial to address to prevent hemodynamic instability?

<p>The potential for sympatholysis and subsequent hypotension, especially in patients on ACE inhibitors or ARBs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient with heart failure undergoing general anesthesia, what is the primary rationale for using invasive arterial and central venous monitoring, despite the lack of strong evidence showing improved outcomes?

<p>To limit iatrogenic changes in preload and afterload that may lead to hemodynamic compromise. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with severe heart failure requires an inotrope during the perioperative period. Which of the following considerations is MOST important when selecting and administering inotropic support?

<p>Titrating the inotrope to achieve optimal cardiac output and tissue perfusion, while carefully monitoring for adverse effects. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is undergoing a surgical procedure. Which anesthetic approach is MOST likely to be beneficial in terms of afterload management?

<p>Neuraxial anesthesia, as the moderate reduction in afterload may improve cardiac output. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement BEST reflects the consensus on the use of digoxin in the perioperative management of heart failure patients?

<p>The decision to continue or stop digoxin perioperatively must be individualized based on the patient's specific condition and potential risks. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Heart Failure

A complex clinical syndrome resulting from impaired ventricular performance.

Causes of Ventricular Dysfunction

Death/dysfunction of myocytes; Pressure/volume overload.

Effects of Decreased Myocardial Contractility

Stroke volume drops; End-diastolic volume and pressure increase.

Frank-Starling Law in Heart Failure

Myocardial contractility is restored due to increased end-diastolic volume.

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Cardiac Remodelling

Myocardial hypertrophy and chamber enlargement.

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Heart Failure Prevalence

Increasing due to ageing population.

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Compensatory Mechanism in Heart Failure

Activation of the sympathetic nervous system.

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Perioperative Risk

Proportional to severity + surgical risk.

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Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF)

Volume of blood pumped out of the left ventricle with each contraction.

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Decreased LVEF Significance

Indicates increased risk; highest risk if LVEF is less than 35%.

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LVEF Calculation Accuracy

Operator-dependent and requires uniform ventricular shape.

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Normal ECG in Heart Failure

Often prompts review of the diagnosis.

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Echocardiography in Heart Failure

Assess myocardial dysfunction and diagnose the cause.

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Echocardiography Challenges

Subjective and dependent on operator skill.

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Target of Heart Failure Treatment

RAA system activation, decreasing cardiac output, and cardiac remodeling.

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Vicious Neurohumoral Cycle

Activation leads to cycle of worsening heart failure.

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Sympathomimetics

Drugs that mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, often used to increase blood pressure by constricting blood vessels and increasing heart rate.

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ACE Inhibitor

Inhibits the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, reducing vasoconstriction and blood pressure.

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Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

Medications that block the action of angiotensin II at the AT1 receptor, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure.

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Angiotensin-Dependent Blood Pressure

A state where blood pressure is maintained by angiotensin II, particularly when hypovolemic.

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Hypovolemia

Low blood volume.

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Beta-blockers in HF

Beta-blockers reduce mortality in heart failure.

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Beta-blockers & Inotropes

Beta-blockers influence hemodynamic response to inotropes.

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ACC/AHA Guidelines

Guideline updates available online.

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Post-Vascular Surgery Risks

Risk factors exist for MI after vascular procedures.

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Beta-Adrenoreceptor Antagonists (Beta-Blockers)

Medications that block the effects of adrenaline on beta-adrenergic receptors.

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Perioperative Hypotension

Low blood pressure requiring intervention (e.g., fluids, vasopressors).

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Phenylephrine, Norepinephrine, or Epinephrine Infusion

May be needed to increase blood pressure during hypotension.

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ACE-Inhibitor-Induced Acute Renal Failure

Kidney failure that develops rapidly.

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Glomerular Afferent Arteriolar Blood Flow

Blood flow into the glomerulus.

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Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

The rate at which the kidneys filter blood.

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Efferent Arteriolar Vasoconstriction

Blood flow leaving the glomerulus.

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Recommended Beta-Blockers for Chronic Heart Failure

Metoprolol, bisoprolol and carvedilol.

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Inotropes in Heart Failure

Inotropic support is generally reserved for severe heart failure cases due to potential adverse outcomes with long-term use.

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Preload Dependence

Many patients with heart failure depend on preload to maintain ventricular filling.

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Perioperative Fluid Shifts

Sudden shifts in preload or afterload during the perioperative period can negatively affect heart failure patients.

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Invasive Monitoring

Information from invasive arterial and central venous monitoring may help anticipate or limit changes.

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Neuraxial Blockade and Hypotension

Neuraxial blockade may cause severe hypotension, especially if ACE inhibitors or ARBs have been continued.

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Digoxin Management

Stopping digoxin perioperatively necessitates maintaining heart rate control and positive inotropy via other drugs.

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Sympatholysis Hypotension

Sympatholysis from neuraxial blockade may cause severe hypotension.

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Afterload Reduction Benefit

A moderate reduction in afterload may increase cardiac output without increasing oxygen demand.

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Study Notes

  • Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome resulting from impaired ventricular performance
  • HF is a common condition, affecting 1% of the population aged 50-59 and 10% of those over 80
  • HF prevalence is increasing due to an aging population and improved survival from other cardiovascular diseases
  • HF carries a high mortality rate, with a 50% 4-year mortality and a 50% 1-year mortality for severe cases

Pathophysiology

  • Ischemic heart disease and hypertension are major causes of HF
  • Other causes include diabetes, valvular disease, cardiomyopathies, infections, and nutritional factors
  • Mechanisms of ventricular dysfunction involve myocyte death or dysfunction and pressure or volume overload
  • Cardiac remodeling includes myocardial hypertrophy, chamber enlargement, and increased ventricular wall stress
  • Sympathetic activation and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) contribute to a vicious cycle, exacerbating heart injury

Diagnosis and Staging

  • HF diagnosis requires clinical signs and symptoms along with objective evidence of ventricular dysfunction
  • ECG findings may include chamber hypertrophy, ventricular strain, signs of ischemia, atrial fibrillation
  • Echocardiography assesses myocardial dysfunction severity and may diagnose the underlying cause
  • The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) have a four-stage classification for HF management

Risk Assessment

  • Surgery is classified based on perioperative hemodynamic changes, fluid shifts, and stress response severity
  • High-risk surgeries include open aortic and peripheral vascular procedures
  • Functional capacity is a key indicator of cardiovascular reserve, with limited exercise tolerance being a risk marker
  • LVEF is used as a measure of systolic function, with lower values indicating more severe dysfunction

Medical management

  • Aims to counter the vicious cycle of RAAS activation, decrease cardiac output, and cardiac remodeling
  • Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are a first-line treatment to decrease the risk of myocardial infarction and death
  • ACE should be stopped 10 hours before surgery and may cause hypotension
  • Angiotensin receptor antagonists are alternatives for patients intolerant to ACE inhibitors, but pose hypotension risks during anesthesia
  • Beta-blockers reduce hospital admissions, prevent disease progression, and improve long-term survival
  • Diuretics control symptoms but can lead to electrolyte abnormalities, hypovolemia, and arrhythmias

Other Considerations

  • Digoxin controls symptoms and ventricular rate in AF, but has a narrow therapeutic index and can cause toxicity
  • Beta-agonists or phosphodiesterase inhibitors are reserved for severe HF due to association with worse survival
  • Elective non-cardiac surgery should be timed to decrease patient risk
  • Decompensated or untreated HF is a major risk predictor, requiring postponement of surgery if possible

Anesthetic management

  • Management depends on the degree of heart failure, cause/nature of cardiomyopathy, and surgical procedure
  • Stages A and B focus on avoiding drug interactions and maintaining therapy benefits
  • Stable anesthesia, with minimal myocardial depression or afterload change, is favored for heart failure patients
  • Regional techniques can be an alternative but pose a risk of hypotension

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Explore key considerations for managing patients on ACE inhibitors/AT blockers during anesthesia, including hypotension management and risk stratification. Review heart failure mechanisms, Frank-Starling law implications, and ECG findings. Learn about the increasing prevalence and management of heart failure in cardiovascular care.

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