Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 4/11/2007

Question
I have been tested and confirmed for a pseudocholinesterase deficiency.  My mother stopped breathing while under general anesthesia during a surgery, was brought out of it OK under an anesthesiologist, and was tested for the deficiency.  This led me to be tested as well.  
I am scheduled to have a vasectomy in 2 weeks.  They are using local anesthesia at an outpatient clinic.  I discussed this with that doctor who said I would be fine under local anesthesia but he is not an anesthesiologist and I'm not sure if one will be present.  What are my risks if any and what next steps should I take?
Additional info ***
From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pseudocholinesterase_deficiency
Pseudocholinesterase deficiency is an inherited blood plasma enzyme abnormality. People who have this abnormality may be sensitive to certain anesthetic drugs, including the muscle relaxants succinylcholine and mivacurium as well as other ester local anesthetics [1].
**Note: my concern is that my breathing could be affected by local anesthetics as well.  

Answer
If you're having the procedure under local, then there is nothing to worry about but you should still request to have it done with an amide based local anesthetic (to be on the safe side).

Ronald Levy, MD
Associate Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston