Perioperative Hereditary Angioedema Triggered by Laryngeal Mask Airway: A Case Report and Anesthetic Implications

TL;DR

A 79-year-old man with hereditary angioedema experienced a severe reaction after surgery, highlighting the need for careful perioperative management.

Contribution

This case report highlights the use of a laryngeal mask airway as a potential trigger for HAE and emphasizes perioperative management strategies.

Findings

The patient developed acute facial edema after using a supraglottic airway device.

Prompt recognition and treatment led to rapid resolution and uneventful recovery.

The case emphasizes the importance of perioperative awareness and planning for HAE patients.

Abstract

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare condition characterized by episodic subcutaneous or mucosal edema, which may pose significant challenges in the perioperative setting. We report the management of a 79‑year-old male patient undergoing transurethral resection of a bladder tumor under general anesthesia with a supraglottic airway device. Postoperatively, the patient developed acute facial edema requiring prompt recognition and disease‑specific intervention. Rapid resolution was achieved, and the patient had an uneventful recovery. This case underscores the importance of perioperative awareness, early recognition, and careful planning to prevent airway complications in patients with HAE.

Figures