Anaesthesia in the obese patient

Abstract Obesity is an increasing problem and its burden on healthcare resources is well documented. This article gives an overview of the physiological and pharmacological considerations when anaesthetizing the obese patient. It will look at key aspects of assessing obese patients, and planning and delivering a safe anaesthetic to them. Special areas of focus include correct drug dosing, as well as equipment, monitoring and environmental aspects involved in delivering the anaesthetic.