(Health and Medical Publishing Group -- HMPG, 1985-04) Jakubowski, M.; Lamont, A.; Murray, W. B.; De Wit, S. L.
The data from a retrospective study of 32 anaesthetics administered for free-flap tissue operations are analysed. We suggest balanced analgesic-dominated general anaesthesia, supported wherever possible by continuous regional block. Special attention is paid to full control over the cardiovascular system and the haemodynamics, including the microcirculation and optimal rheological properties of the blood, as well as metabolic ability. Our results suggest that factors such as adequate infusion therapy guided by central venous pressure and urinary output and strict body temperature control, supplementary use of regional blocks and peri-operative use of dextran 40 (Rheomacrodex) can contribute significantly towards the overall success of free-flap surgery.