Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 3/15/2010

Question
I'm a psychiatrist and just had a patient tell me that she's been told to stop taking her Geodon for 2 weeks prior to orthopedic surgery under general anesthesia.  I have no idea why this would be necessary.  Can you enlighten me?  And, considering this patient needs the Geodon, how critical is it?  Thanks!

Answer
I have not heard of a specific contraindication with anesthesia but I imagine it is related to the problem of prolonged QT interval. As far as how critical, I guess it depends on how much the patient needs it or if there is an alternative. I would suggest that you (as his physician) contact the anesthesiologist directly and discuss the issue and possible alternatives. Each anesthesiologist has his own comfort level and I imagine that talking with you with help him come up with a reasonable anesthetic plan.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMb-Galveston