The effects of stellate ganglion block on the idiopathic prolongation of the Q-T interval with cardiac arrhythmia (the Romano-Ward syndrome).

The association of a prolonged Q-T interval, congenital deafness, and syncopal attacks due to ventricular fibrillation following emotional or physical stress is known as the Jervell-Lange-Nielsen syndrome. Absence of the congenital deafness characterizes the otherwise identical Romano-Ward syndrome. Both conditions have a high mortality rate and are recognized as contributing to sudden death in children. Although the pathogenetic factors are not yet completely elucidated, the condition is well enough understood to permit effective treatment. The authors performed a left stellate ganglion block in a 12-year-old girl with a mild form of the Romano-Ward syndrome, shortening the Q-T interval and eliminating the ventricular tachyarrhythmia. The left stellete ganglion block should be considered by anesthesiologists as an emergency measure, effective in interrupting the attack.