Anesthesia Medications and Interaction with Chemotherapeutic Agents

Oncol Ther. 2021 Jun;9(1):121-138. doi: 10.1007/s40487-021-00149-1. Epub 2021 Apr 16.

Abstract

Cancer is now a leading health concern worldwide. In an effort to provide these patients with adequate care, coordination between anesthesiologists and surgeons is crucial. In cancer-related treatment, it is very clear that radio-chemotherapy and medical procedures are important. There are some obstacles to anesthesia when dealing with cancer treatment, such as physiological disturbances, tumor-related symptoms, and toxicity in traditional chemotherapy treatment. Therefore, it is important that a multisystemic, multidisciplinary and patient-centered approach is used to preserve perioperative homeostasis and immune function integrity. Adding adjuvants can help increase patient safety and satisfaction and improve clinical efficacy. Correctly paired anesthetic procedures and medications will reduce perioperative inflammatory and immune changes that could potentially contribute to improved results for future cancer patients. Further research into best practice strategies is required which will help to enhance the acute and long-term effects of cancer care in clinical practice.

Keywords: Anesthesia; Cancer; Desflurane; Isoflurane; Ketamine; Oncology; Pain; Propofol; Sevoflurane.

Publication types

  • Review