coryzal symptoms (fitness for anaesthesia)
Last reviewed 01/2018
Upper respiratory tract infections are commonly associated with a poor post-anaesthetic outcome, typically, bronchitis. All but emergency procedures are contraindicated until coryzal symptoms have cleared. This is especially valid for very young or old patients.
Children are prone to coryzal infections which may result in mucosal and lymphoid swelling. They are also more likely to go into laryngospasm while under general anaesthesia. Hence, it is prudent to postpone elective operations.