Information for Health Care Providers
· Is nitrous oxide safe for dental surgery?
Yes! Nitrous oxide (“laughing gas,” N2O) does not trigger Malignant Hyperthermia in susceptible patients and can therefore be used safely.
· Is intravenous sedation safe in susceptible patients?
Yes! All commonly used drugs for sedation (benzodiazepines, propofol, barbiturates, ketamine, opioids) do not trigger Malignant Hyperthermia and can be used safely.
· Are local anesthetics safe in susceptible patients?
Yes! All available local anesthetics of both ester- and amide-structure do not trigger Malignant Hyperthermia.
· Should I monitor my patient longer after a procedure or even admit to a hospital for observation?
As long as the patient has not been exposed to triggering agents, no special precautions are necessary unless indicated by other coexisting medical conditions.
· Do I need to have dantrolene available in my office?
Unless you are using triggering agents in your practice there is no need to have dantrolene available.
· Where can I get further advice?
In case of an emergency, expert medical advice is available via the MH Hotline coordinated by MHAUS: 1-800-MH-HYPER.
Many common questions and answers, especially on the appropriate treatment of Malignant Hyperthermia, can be found on the MHAUS website: http://www.mhaus.org.
Consult with an anesthesiologist or contact one of the testing sites.