[Anaesthesia and Parkinson's disease]

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this review is to draw up a statement on current knowledge available on perioperative management of Parkinson's disease patients.

Study design: Review.

Data synthesis: In France, approximately 150,000 persons suffer from Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder of central nervous system. Parkinson's disease results in selective and irreversible loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Medications based on dopaminergic drugs are used to control motor symptoms and improve motor function. Development of surgical approach, especially deep brain stimulation, has revolutionized the medical management of many patients with Parkinson's disease. Anesthesia of these patients remains a challenge for the clinician. The aim of this review is to describe anaesthetic considerations of patients with Parkinson's disease and to discuss management of antiparkinsonians medications during the perioperative period.