The MH crisis must be identified and treated early in its course in order for there to be a successful outcome. The treatment must be swift, focused and continued for many hours after an episode begins.
Since 1979, the drug dantrolene sodium for injection (Dantrium® I.V.) has been available for the treatment of an MH crisis and has contributed greatly to a dramatic decline in deaths and/or resultant disabilities associated with such occurrences. It is therefore vital that all hospitals, ambulatory centers and offices where general anesthesia is administered have a full supply of dantrolene immediately available.
In addition, the provider must have facilities to rapidly lower body temperature, measure acid –base changes in the blood, measure coagulation changes, blood electrolytes and tests for muscle breakdown.
A treatment plan must therefore be on hand and periodically rehearsed. MHAUS can supply a detailed treatment protocol (in English and in Spanish) for facilities where general anesthesia is given.
