Anaesthetic considerations in rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis

Abstract

Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis is a serious infection that can complicate the course of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Surgical debridement of infected/necrotic tissue along with antifungal co-medication constitutes the mainstay of treatment. Amphotericin B can produce electrolyte imbalance and nephrotoxicity. The lungs and other organs can be affected to various extents by COVID-19 infection. Both mask ventilation and intubation can be difficult in these patients. Meticulous preoperative evaluation and optimisation, followed by a carefully planned anaesthetic aimed at maintaining haemodynamic stability, often spells success.