Perioperative Rhabdomyolysis in Obese Individuals Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: Current Status

One potential complication in bariatric surgery is rhabdomyolysis, which is a condition involving muscle tissue damage that can significantly impact a patient’s health. The causes of rhabdomyolysis can be broadly classified into two major categories: traumatic and non-traumatic. Early investigations into the development of intraoperative rhabdomyolysis in bariatric surgery identified the main risk factors as tissue compression—primarily affecting the lower extremities, gluteal muscles, and lumbar region—as well as prolonged periods of immobilization. Clinically, rhabdomyolysis is typically suspected when a patient presents with muscle pain, weakness, and potentially dark urine or even anuria. However, the most reliable biomarker for rhabdomyolysis is elevated serum creatine kinase levels. The primary goal in managing hydration is to correct intravascular volume depletion, with solutions such as Lactated Ringer’s or 0.9% saline being appropriate options for resuscitation. Perioperative diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis poses a significant challenge for anesthesiologists, requiring a high degree of clinical suspicion, particularly in bariatric patients. In this vulnerable population, prevention is crucial. The success of treatment depends on its early initiation; however, there are still significant limitations in the therapies available to prevent renal injury secondary to rhabdomyolysis.