Effects of anesthesia and other perioperative factors on immune function: a narrative review

This study investigates the impact of perioperative factors on patients' immune functions including physiological condition, surgical strategy, anesthesia methodology, intraoperative usage of anesthetics, blood transfusion, intraoperative body temperature, and inspired oxygen concentration. Results demonstrate that the individual perioperative factors have varying degree of impact, while their combined effect may cause changes in patients' immune function. The study outcomes suggest that patient's immune function must be assessed prior to the surgery based on individual characteristics. The surgical and anesthetic methods are accordingly selected. During the surgery, prudent usage and monitoring of factors like anesthesia techniques, anesthetics, inhaled oxygen concentration, blood transfusion, and patient's body temperature are vital for minimizing the immune system disruptions. These findings practically guide regarding the optimization of perioperative care strategies and mitigation of immunosuppression risks.