A "battle preparation" guide for preoperative anesthesia in patients undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy

Author: Zhang Tiefeng, Shaanxi Cancer Hospital

Reviewer: Chen Jun, Chief Physician, Shaanxi Cancer Hospital

In the fight against cancer, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, with their unique power, have become powerful assistants for many patients in their fight against the disease. However, in this war without gunpowder, every step needs to be taken with caution, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy who are preparing for surgery. When facing the key link of anesthesia, they need to be fully prepared to ensure the smooth progress of treatment and physical safety. Today, we will provide a detailed and practical preoperative anesthesia "preparation" guide for chemotherapy and radiotherapy patients.

1. The “Double-Edged Sword” Effect of Chemoradiotherapy

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy, as two important means of treating cancer, kill cancer cells through the power of chemical drugs and radiation, and strive for the hope of survival for patients. However, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are a "double-edged sword". While killing cancer cells, they will cause certain damage to normal cells, leading to a series of side effects such as weakened immune system and physical fatigue. These side effects not only affect the quality of life of patients, but are also particularly important during the special moment of anesthesia, because any slight physical changes may have unpredictable effects on the anesthesia effect and patient safety.

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2. "Body Reconnaissance" before Anesthesia

Facing the upcoming anesthesia challenge, patients undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy need to first undergo a comprehensive "physical reconnaissance". The doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the patient's physical condition through a series of examinations such as detailed medical history, physical examination, blood test, electrocardiogram, etc., and develop an individualized anesthesia plan for the patient.

3. The “double blessing” of nutrition and rest

In the preparation stage before anesthesia, radiotherapy and chemotherapy patients also need to pay attention to the "double blessing" of nutrition and rest. Good nutritional status is the key to improving immunity and enhancing body resistance. Patients should try to maintain a balanced diet and consume enough protein, vitamins and minerals to promote the body's recovery and repair. At the same time, regular work and rest and adequate sleep are also essential. Adequate sleep helps relieve fatigue, restore physical strength, and reserve enough energy for the anesthesia process.

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4. “Spiritual Dialogue” with Doctors

Before anesthesia, full communication with the doctor is indispensable. Patients should actively inform the doctor of their radiotherapy and chemotherapy regimen and their current physical sensations. This information is crucial for doctors to develop individualized anesthesia plans. At the same time, patients can also consult the doctor about anesthesia methods, risks, and precautions to eliminate doubts and uneasiness. Through such a "heart-to-heart dialogue", trust and tacit understanding can be established between patients and doctors, laying a solid foundation for the subsequent anesthesia process.

5. “Fine Control” of Physiological Conditions

Before anesthesia, doctors will also fine-tune the patient's physiological condition. For problems such as immune system suppression and physical decline caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, doctors may take a series of measures to reduce the risks of anesthesia. For example, for patients with low immune function, doctors may recommend the use of drugs or therapies that enhance immunity; for patients with poor physical strength, doctors will develop a milder anesthesia plan and strengthen intraoperative monitoring and care. Through these fine-tuning measures, doctors can maximize the safety and comfort of patients during anesthesia.

6. Patients’ “Active Participation”

Finally, patients also need to exercise their own "subjective initiative" in the preparation process before anesthesia. In addition to following the doctor's instructions and suggestions, patients can also take the initiative to learn some basic knowledge about anesthesia and radiotherapy and chemotherapy in order to better understand their condition and treatment plan. At the same time, patients can also actively participate in some rehabilitation training and psychological counseling activities to improve their physical and psychological qualities and be fully prepared for anesthesia and subsequent treatment.

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In short, for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy who are preparing for surgical treatment, adequate preparation before anesthesia is an indispensable part. Through comprehensive physical examinations, nutrition and rest, full communication with doctors, fine regulation of physiological conditions, and active participation of patients, we can provide patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy with a safer and more comfortable anesthesia environment, allowing them to move forward more bravely and firmly in the fight against cancer.