How does immunosuppression in cancer patients affect anesthesia?
Cancer patients, especially those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or bone marrow transplants, are often immunosuppressed. This makes them more susceptible to infections, including those that could be introduced during surgery. It is essential to maintain a sterile environment and consider prophylactic antibiotics to prevent postoperative infections. Additionally, immunosuppressed patients may have altered responses to anesthetic agents, requiring careful monitoring and dose adjustments.
