Pre-treatment with oral dantrolene 5 mg/kg over 24 hours preoperatively, or 1 mg/kg IV before induction has been used, but is rarely considered now. Management is essentially avoidance of known triggers (N2O is safe). Total IV anaesthesia has been suggested as a useful technique. Some advocate the use of a new anaesthetic machine, others consider a new breathing circuit with flushing of the machine with fresh gas for 20 minutes prior to use.
Reference
[i] Dantrolene in pregnancy: lack of adverse effects on the fetus and newborn infant. Shime J, Gare D, Andrews J, Britt B. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1988; 159(4): 831-4. Related examination questions
Final SAQ: A General Practitioner has contacted you for advice about a patient who may be susceptible to malignant hyperthermia. Write a letter to the General Practitioner, explaining the significance of this condition for the patient and the relatives.
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