Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 9/15/2007

Question
I have recently undergone a total hip joint replacement under spinal anesthesia.  During the operation I experienced very low blood pressure several times.  My heart rate spiked from 58 to 230 for a few seconds and then returned to the lower range.  This occurred several times and they administered something "to slow my heart down".

About 24-hours after the operation I began to experience raised, red, pimple like spots.  These occurred on my chest, forearms, and around the circumference of my waist about where a belt would be.
Accompanying these spots are patches of red skin, somewhat what you might see on someone with rosacia.  The largest patch covered from neck to pectorals.  Other small patches occurred on the inside of my arms near the elbows.  These red areas are itchy and seem to be aggravated by heat (hot water in shower). No spots or redness occurred below the waist, only from the waist up to my neck.

I have had a spinal anesthesia once before about 7-years ago without incident.  

Is what I have described a reaction to the anesthesia, and if so what treatment would be indicated to get rid of this infernal itching?
Thank you.

Answer
Hi Vernon
I am sorry to hear about the problem you are having. It is difficult to think of a mechanism that would lead to your problem linked to the spinal itself. However it is possible you are having some sort of reaction to one of the drugs you received. However again I would not have expected a delayed reaction like this. The question has to be are you still taking any drugs?
One of the drugs that may be implicated (if you were given it during the op) is called a plasma expander which is a fluid given to help when you lose blood during an operation. I found this link to something that may sound familiar to you. (you will have to copy and paste it as I don't think I'm allowed to make direct links from this website)
http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/314/7092/1466
I am sorry but if this is your problem then it would appear there is little treatment that helps. However if you go to your doctors armed with the reference they may be able to find something.
I wish you all the best
Dr Ian Jackson