Orthopedic surgery: some anesthetic considerations.

Orthopedic surgery is the branch of surgery concerned with preserving and/or restoring the skeletal system-its functions, articulations and structures. For example, reconstructive procedures are performed on pediatric patients for congenital problems and on the aged for correction of degenerative processes. Factors that need to be considered include the preoperative condition of the patient, intraoperative hemorrhage, fluid and electrolyte management, controlled hypotension, fat emboli, acrylic cement, and the proper use of tourniquets. Although all the above factors may not be pertinent in every case, each procedure has unique anesthetic complications.