Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis with paramyotonia and the anaesthetic implications

Abstract

Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HyperKPP) is a rare disease with significant anaesthetic implications. We compare two perioperative courses in the same patient. The first surgery resulted in paralysis and a protracted hospitalisation, while the second surgery resulted in a same-day discharge. Various anaesthetic techniques may be used; however, clear communication surrounding optimisation both for home medications (eg, continuing potassium wasting diuretics) and avoidance of triggering medications (primarily: depolarising neuromuscular blockers), along with thermoregulation and glucose management plans, is critical and best performed early by an anaesthetic precare clinic. Our cases highlight the physiological underpinnings in managing patients with HyperKPP.