Phenytoin Pharmacokinetics and Cardiopulmonary Bypass: A Case of Seizures in the Postoperative Period

EPILEPSY IS a generic term referring to a condition characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures.1 The management of epilepsy in the perioperative period is closely related to the management of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Of the commonly used AEDs, the perioperative management of phenytoin presents a challenge because of its unique pharmacokinetic properties. Phenytoin binds to neuronal voltage-gated sodium channels while in their inactive state to increase their duration of inactivity. This translates into a reduction in the frequency with which neurons can propagate action potentials.

Source: Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia - December 18, 2019 Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Kayvan Aflaki, Pulkit Buptani, Sena Aflaki Tags: Case Report Source Type: research