While it happens rarely, Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) is an extremely dangerous reaction to certain anesthesia drugs. MH is well understood and highly preventable when proper precautions are taken, but can also be deadly if not monitored for. Medical teams must follow strict protocols for screening, monitoring, and emergency preparation to prevent MH.
Symptoms
- Rapid spike in body temperature
- Muscle rigidity (especially jaw)
- Very high heart rate
- Dark or cola-colored urine
- Rapid breathing or dangerously high CO₂ levels
- Uncontrolled bleeding due to clotting failure
What causes Malignant Hyperthermia during anesthesia?
Most cases of MH occur when anesthesia providers fail to identify patients at risk or are not prepared to treat the condition promptly. Providers may overlook family history or symptoms that show the patient might be a strong candidate for MH. When that happens, drugs may be given to the patient that trigger MH.
If staff fail to monitor carbon dioxide and temperature during surgery closely, this can delay diagnosis. The most critical mistake is not having dantrolene—the life-saving antidote—readily available, as delays in treatment dramatically increase the risk of death.
Serious injuries that can be caused by Malignant Hyperthermia
Because MH progresses so quickly, it can cause widespread organ failure within a short period if not treated immediately. That’s why it’s so important that medical providers take proper precautions, as the injuries caused by MH are often severe and long-lasting.
Massive muscle breakdown linked to MH may overwhelm the kidneys, causing acute renal failure (sudden loss of kidney function). Clotting may cause internal bleeding or widespread organ damage. Extreme fever can injure the brain, leading to permanent neurological problems.
Cardiac arrest, long-term muscle weakness, chronic pain, and mobility problems are also commonly caused by MH. Without quick recognition and intervention, MH has a high mortality rate.
Medical teams must follow strict protocols for screening, monitoring, and emergency preparation to prevent MH. When anesthesia providers fail to act promptly or do not stock essential medications, the consequences can be fatal. Survivors often require lengthy rehabilitation and may face permanent disability.
The team at Weisser Law is here to uncover whether proper MH safety procedures were followed and to secure resources for long-term care.
Contact Weisser Law today to schedule your free consultation.