 his
year marks the 25th anniversary of the founding
of the Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the
United States (MHAUS). The organization was formed
by several individuals who had personal experiences
with malignant hyperthermia (MH), Suellen Long Gallamore,
Owen Davison, Robert Luckritz and George Massik.
I was asked to provide professional guidance. The
goal of MHAUS from the beginning was to provide
information and advice concerning this potentially
fatal disorder as well as to support research and
understanding of MH.
The founders were determined to do everything necessary
to reduce mortality and morbidity from MH. The progress
that has been made toward this end has been significant.
In keeping with bringing the most recent information
concerning MH to medical professionals, MHAUS maintains
a Web site, produces printed material, a newsletter
and posters and supports a 24/7 hotline. I have
previously described the introduction of molecular
genetic diagnostic testing to assist in identifying
those at risk
(September 2005
ASA NEWSLETTER).
Adding to the armamentarium of educational tools
is a new and entertaining 26-minute video in DVD
or VHS format. The video begins with an anesthesiologist
preparing for a presentation to his peers on MH,
his concerns about the potential for patient harm
from inadequate preparation and proceeds through
a simulation of an MH episode. Interwoven in the
story line is information on such topics as counseling
the MH-susceptible patient, mixing dantrolene, a
discussion of the genetics of MH and, of course,
the clinical presentation of the syndrome.
The “plot” for this video was developed
by Jim Woods, M.D., Professor and Chair of Obstetrics
and Gynecology at the University of Rochester, who
has employed video presentations for teaching residents
for many years.
An information booklet with a quiz rounds out the
kit, offering one continuing education unit for
nurses and one continuing medical education credit
for physicians. The test and Certificate of Completion
will soon be accessible at <www.mhaus.org>.
The video format is ideal for in-service education,
allowing time for viewing and discussion of the
nuances of handling the syndrome and counseling
the MH-susceptible patient.
For more information, please visit <www.mhaus.org>
or call MHAUS at (607) 674-7901.
About MHAUS
For the past 25 years, MHAUS, a not-for-profit organization,
has been fulfilling its mission of eliminating death
and disability from MH and similar disorders. The
organization provides information and education
in multiple formats either free or at a low cost.
MHAUS has contributed to the understanding of this
complex disorder through extensive data collection
and support of scientific research.
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