L'anesthésiste face au syndrome des jambes sans repos

Restless legs syndrome is a neurological dopa-responsive condition that affects up to 10% of the general population. It is characterized by four criteria: (i) an urge to move the legs associated with dysesthesia or paresthesia; (ii) occurring at rest; (iii) in the evening or in the night-time; and (iv) transiently alleviated by leg movements and walking. Any exacerbation during the perioperative period exposes the patient to the risk of surgical complications, either in the operating theater or during the postoperative course because of the urge to move. Many factors contribute to exacerbate the restless legs syndrome, including withdrawal of dopaminergic agents, immobilization, perioperative use of neuroleptics, and antihistamine drugs, sleep deprivation and blood loss. This painful exacerbation can be prevented following simple guidelines.