The Southern Medical Journal (SMJ) is the official, peer-reviewed journal of the Southern Medical Association. It has a multidisciplinary and inter-professional focus that covers a broad range of topics relevant to physicians and other healthcare specialists.

SMJ // Article

Review Article

CME Article: Perioperative Management in Sickle Cell Disease

Authors: Rita D. Paschal, MD

Abstract

Many patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) will require surgical intervention during the course of their lifetime. Common surgeries include orthopedic and abdominal procedures. Perioperative complications occur commonly and can be related to the surgical procedure or the underlying hemoglobinopathy. The complication rate may be reduced by preoperative optimization of disease and careful attention to the patient in the postoperative period. This review examines the perioperative management of patients with SCD. For patients undergoing both elective and emergent surgery, attempts should be made to coordinate care with an SCD specialist.

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