Anesthesia for the surgical procedures of the morbidly obese

Abstract

Surgery for the morbidly obese is no longer a novelty. Understanding the basic mechanisms of the pathophysiology of morbid obesity and taking simple precautions while preparing these patients for surgery will help reduce complications. This review outlined preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative management of the morbidly obese patient in line with the current knowledge. Airway management, drug choices, changes in respiratory, circulatory, urinary, and metabolic systems were discussed. Some early and long-term changes in the morbidly obese, like gastroesophageal reflux and vitamin deficiencies were also summarized to aid in subsequent operations and management.