Impact of Spontaneous Breathing on Ventilation Distribution in Obese Patients

Impact of Spontaneous Breathing on Ventilation Distribution in Obese Patients

General anesthesia (GA) and paralysis are factors which facilitate atelectasis formation, especially in obese patients. Spontaneous breathing can reduce the amount of atelectasis. In this study, the investigators are comaparing obese patients undergoing hip arthroplasty in GA versus spinal anesthesia. Distribution of ventilation during and after anesthesia is assessed by eletrical impedance tomography (EIT).

Inclusion Criteria:

• BMI >30
• age 18-85
• elective hip arthroplasty in general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnancy/breastfeeding
• allergies against drugs used for the anesthesia
• contraindications for EIT
• severe cardiac or pulmonary comorbidities
• unable to consent or understand/follow study