Thoracic epidural anesthesia for modified radical mastectomy in a patient with cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis: a case report

A case of advanced cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis (CFA) with multiple bullae and extensive pulmonary fibrosis, scheduled for modified radical mastectomy for carcinoma of breast, is presented. This patient had ischemic heart disease, corticosteroid-induced hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and a difficult airway. Thoracic epidural segmental anesthesia was successfully given to this patient. Preoperative problems, perioperative management, and alternative anesthetic techniques are discussed.