Thanks so much James for being on our first episode AND being quizzed on thyroid anaesthesia.

We hope this will be useful for anyone studying anaesthesia but especially those about to sit the ANZCA part 2 exam!

The Case

You are called down to review a patient for the evening emergency list in your tertiary hospital. 

60yo female with SBO for laparotomy, looks unwell

A: speaking

B RR 30 sats 92% on RA 98% 6L HM O2.

C 2 16G iv. HR 130, BP 100, 2L CSL given.

D GCS 15. In 7/10 pain. Total 10 of morphine iv given by paramedics and ED in last 2 hours. Temp 38.5deg. Broad spec antibx given. 

E. 80kg. 150cm. BMI 35. Large goitre.



How do you treat this?

This is very uncommon and I would always consult endocrinology to advise!

o   Supportive

o   Cool patient

o   Hydration

o   Oxygen and ventilation

 

Reduction of synthesis of thyroid hormone

o   Dexamethasone 4mg iv q8hr or hydrocortisone 100mg iv q6-8h

o   Iodine: sodium iodide (1 g IV or Lugol's solution 4–8 drops orally q6–8h) or supersaturated potassium iodide solution (5 drops orally q6h)

o   Iv methimazole (20mg 4-6hrly) carbimazole 20-30 enterally tds

o   Propylthiouracil (200-400 mg o q6-8hrs

 

Reduction of peripheral conversion of T4 to t3

o   Propylthiouracil

o   Hydrocortisone

o   propranolol 80mg o 6hrly or 5mg iv. Over 10mins  repeat 3x prn.

 

Decrease metabolic effects of thyroid

o   Beta blockers

o   Propranolol, esmolol

o   Caution in COPD. 

o   Maybe iv diltiazem

 

Other

o   plasma exchange

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Disclaimer:

The information contained in this podcast is for medical practitioner education only. It is not and will not be relevant for the general public.

This contains general information about medical conditions and treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as such. 

The medical information is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied. 

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