Monday, March 31, 2008

Pastic Surgery Death Raises Concerns over Malignant Hypothermia

New concerns have been raised over plastic surgery after the death of a seemingly healthy Florida teenage girl.

Flowers and pictures were left outside West Boca High School for Stephanie Kuleba, who died after undergoing plastic surgery.

"It's really a hard thing to deal with. She was an amazing person. Everyone misses her a lot," said Stephanie's co-worker, Vicky Goldring.

The 18-year-old went under the knife for corrective breast surgery and enhancement.

The doctor told Stephanie's family they believe she suffered a very rare reaction to anesthesia called malignant hypothermia.

"Malignant hypothermia is a catastrophic condition that's caused by certain anesthetic agents that trigger a chain reaction within the body," said plastic surgeon Dr. Frederick Lukash.

Plastic surgery has gain popularity with teenage girls and research indicates breast implants for young women under 18 have tripled in the last five years.

Stephanie Kuleba's type of reaction is very rare and could not be predetermined; however anesthesia can be potentially dangerous for certain people.

"People who have problems with their heart or their lungs, who are diabetic," said Dr. Jennifer Levine, plastic surgeon.

Dr. Levine said it's very important to carefully screen patients for possible complications. More common risks are bleeding during surgery and infection, both have deadly consequences.

"You should always be aware of all the potential risks and make sure this decision is well thought out," said Dr. Levine.

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