• Ivan Rapchuk, Shannon Rabuka, and Marcello Tonelli.
• Department of Anesthesia, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
• Can J Anaesth. 2004 Oct 1;51(8):761-7.

BackgroundPerioperative beta-blockade appears to reduce morbidity and mortality in non-cardiac surgery, and is recommended by published guidelines. This study explores the frequency of perioperative beta-blockade and identifies factors limiting its use.MethodsWe conducted a prospective analysis of consecutive patients seen by anesthesiologists before major non-cardiac surgery in a single month. Because not all patients undergoing major surgery were seen preoperatively by anesthesiologists, we also performed a retrospective analysis of patients who recently underwent such surgery. Data were collected on demographic information, cardiovascular risk factors, beta-blocker use, and perceived contraindications/barriers to beta-blocker use, using a validated instrument.ResultsThe prospective phase studied 222 patients preoperatively, of whom 96 were suitable candidates for perioperative beta-blockade by the American College of Physician guidelines. The retrospective phase studied 200 patients, of whom 63 were suitable candidates, and assessed pre- and postoperative use of beta-blockade. 40.6% and 38.1% of suitable patients received preoperative beta-blockade in the two phases, respectively. Findings were similar in those undergoing vascular surgery, suggesting that perception of perioperative risk did not influence the decision to use beta-blockade. Beta-blockers were not prescribed preoperatively because of lack of knowledge about contraindications to beta-blockade, and anesthesiologist reluctance to prescribe oral medication to outpatients.DiscussionUse of preoperative beta-blockade among suitable candidates appears to be approximately 40%. Anesthesiologists started preoperative beta-blockers infrequently even in patients without contraindications. These findings suggest that educating anesthesiologists about the perioperative use of beta-blockade may increase the use of this potentially beneficial strategy.

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