Journal of clinical engineering
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Malignant hyperthermia is a relatively rare condition which strikes susceptible patients undergoing surgery. This disorder is an inherited biochemical defect, triggered by certain anesthetic agents and stress. ⋯ If a patient, by family history or test, is suspected of being susceptible to malignant hyperthermia, special precautions must be taken before proceeding with surgery. The clinical engineer must: 1) prepare special anesthesia equipment which is free of trace gases capable of triggering an episode of malignant hyperthermia; 2) provide special monitoring facilities to detect the onset of an episode; and 3) have treatment facilities on hand in the event that an episode does develop.