Anesthesia and Sudden Onset Cardiomyopathies in Children

Purpose of Review: Anesthesiologists are often asked to provide anesthesia or sedation for previously healthy children with newly diagnosed cardiomyopathies. A thorough understanding of the disease process, diagnostic work up, and potential complications is important for safe anesthetic management. This article discusses the different classification systems, diagnostic tests, recent outcomes, and specific anesthetic considerations for children with sudden onset cardiomyopathies. Recent Findings: New genetic and molecular research has triggered various changes in the classification system for cardiomyopathies with implications for the communication among specialties. Outcome studies have demonstrated better survival rates for the myocarditis subtype, but the frequent need for temporary extracorporeal support (ECMO). Summary: The anesthetic management of patients with sudden onset cardiomyopathies requires full understanding of the pathophysiology and clinical status of the patient, good communication with the care team, and adequate preparation of the anesthesia location, often involving ECMO back up. © 2017, Springer Science + Business Media New York.