Hi, just wondering if anyone has needed a general anaesthetic who has GPA and also has lung involvement?

[Vqueen]

GPA & Anaesthesia

[Nadine99]

My husband with GPA for 12 years now has lung involvement, COPD, Bronchiectasis and has now been advised not to have a GA unless it's an emergency. It's meant that he cannot have a number of operations that would have helped him but better to be alive and put up with some health issues.

[Chipper03]

Hi, I have EGPA, which mainly affects my lungs, and had a GA in 2019 for a cancer operation. All went smoothly. The only aspect relating to vasculitis that I was aware of, was they did talk about giving extra steroids as part of the process, I presume they did that as part of the IV drugs, I wasn’t given extra pred in the usual pill form that I take.

[Mooka]

I’ve had two sinus rinses and a lump removed under general anaesthetic with no adverse effects. I have MPA and Bronchiectasis.

[CallyFS]

I have GPA affecting my kidneys and lungs. My nephrologist has told me that I should avoid a general anaesthetic as it would do me more harm than good.

[LindaMRich]

Hi - I have had GPA with lung involvement since 2015. Since then I have had 2 flares -2018 (quickly controlled) & last year - More serious & received every drug possible to get it 'put back in its box'! now involving kidney & numb feet.

I have, in that time, had 3 bronchoscopies & 3 hernia ops - all under general anaesthetic with no problem. There is a preference that you aren't on steroids, but at times when it unavoidable the anaesthetist was fully informed & I had a pre-op consult with him as well. I had a chat with my Rheumatology consultant who was very helpful & kept me I formed of what I needed to be aware of. She knows my situation best!

Basically, he needs to keep everyone involved in his care updated & ask if there might be alternative options. I wish you & him the very best! 🙂

[Vqueen]

Thanks everyone, lots to think about xx