Pulmonary hypertension and its management in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery.

Abstract

Pulmonary hypertension is a complex disorder of the pulmonary vasculature that leads to increased peri-operative morbidity and mortality. Non-cardiac surgery constitutes a significant risk in patients with pulmonary hypertension. The management of right ventricular failure is inherently challenging and fraught with life-threatening consequences. A thorough understanding of the pathophysiology, the severity of the disease and its treatment modalities is required to deliver optimal peri-operative care. This review provides an evidence-based overview of the definition, classification, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary hypertension and focuses on the peri-operative management and treatment of pulmonary hypertensive crises in a non-cardiac setting.