Airways and respiratory function in obese patients. Anaesthetic and intensive care aspects and recommendations

In obese patients, perioperative pulmonary complications have an increased frequency and are associated with higher morbidity and mortality compared with non-obese patients. The management of surgical procedures in these patients is a challenge for the anaesthetist. Knowledge of pathophysiological and pharmacological aspects of the obese patients' condition is essential for their care during preoperative assessment, intra-operative management and, if necessary, postoperative intensive care. Special information on airway and lung protection as well as cases involving laparoscopic surgery, obstetric and paediatric anaesthesia in obese patients are also discussed.