Malignant hyperthermia is an autosomal dominant genetic disease that affects the skeletal muscle. Specifically corresponds to a hypermetabolic response against triggering agents such as halogenated gases and the muscle relaxant succinylcholine. Because MH is a potentially fatal disease and ocurrs unexpectedly during a surgery, it is important to stablish how should be the perioperative management of these patients. The aim of this review is to present the current knowledge about the incidence, pathophysiology and triggers of malignant hyperthermia in addition to concepts for the safe management of these patients.