PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the most important anesthetic complication associated with anesthesia?

1. Cardiac arrest

2. Malignant hyperthermia

3. Aspiration pneumonia

4. Anaphylaxis

The correct answer is: Malignant hyperthermia

Malignant hyperthermia is recognized as one of the most significant anesthetic complications associated with certain types of anesthesia, particularly the use of volatile anesthetic agents and succinylcholine. This condition is a hypermetabolic reaction of skeletal muscle triggered by these agents in susceptible individuals, often those with a genetic predisposition. When malignant hyperthermia occurs, it leads to a rapid increase in metabolic rate, resulting in severe complications such as elevated carbon dioxide levels, acidosis, and increased body temperature. If not recognized and treated promptly, it can lead to critical outcomes, including cardiac dysrhythmias and even death. The immediate treatment usually involves the administration of dantrolene, which is specific to the management of malignant hyperthermia. Other complications like cardiac arrest, aspiration pneumonia, and anaphylaxis are also serious but are generally less specific to anesthesia than malignant hyperthermia. For instance, cardiac arrest can occur in various medical settings and is not limited to anesthesia. Aspiration pneumonia arises from the inhalation of gastric contents and is a risk during any unconscious state but is not unique to anesthesia practices. Anaphylaxis represents severe allergic reactions that can occur due to various reasons, not exclusively linked to anesthesia agents. Thus, the specific