Perioperative cardiovascular complications are uncommon and unexpected events in elective surgery. Intraoperative hypotension has been proposed as one of the modifiable factors to prevent adverse outcomes. Traditionally, fluid administration has been used as a strategy to sustain mean arterial pressure (MAP); once intravascular volume is restored, vasopressors emerge as a safe and effective alternative to maintain hemodynamic stability. These agents are frequently administered through central venous access, mainly due to concerns regarding the risk of extravasation and tissue injury associated with peripheral administration. However, several studies have shown that this risk is quite low and does not represent a serious complication. For the implementation of peripheral vasopressor use, the development of local protocols is recommended to guide patient selection, proper administration, and monitoring for extravasation.
Carrasco O., S. ., Molina G., N., Diaz Q., K. ., & Maldonado C., F. . (2025). Practical review of peripheral norepinephrine use during the intraoperative period. Boletín De Anestesia, (5), pp. 9–13. Retrieved from https://boletinanestesia.uchile.cl/index.php/BA/article/view/81290
