Introduction:
Sickle cell anemia is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder that
affects approximately 5% of the world population. It is commonly
prevalent among African Americans. However, it is also seen in Southern
Europe, India, and the Middle East [1,2]. Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)
is characterized by its recurrent vaso-occlusive crises which may lead
to multi-organ damage and reduction in survival rate [3]. These
patients are at greater risk for developing malignancies especially
hematological malignancy, particularly Hodgkin’s lymphoma [4], which
has a great impact on perioperative management.
Advanced cardiopulmonary disorder has appeared as a leading cause of
death [5] with improvements in diagnostic and surgical techniques
along with anesthetic management skills, there is a substantial increase
in patients with SCD who undergo cardiac surgery [2].
Patients with SCD especially the homozygous type, whom are assigned for
cardiac surgery are at greater risk for potentially lethal
vaso-occlusive crises that can be triggered by hypoxia, hypothermia,
acidosis, or low-flow states. All of which can be provoked by
cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), which may increase the likelihood of
significant postoperative complications [1].