A case of intra-operative ventricular fibrillation: Electro-cauterization, undiagnosed Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or long QT syndrome?

INTRODUCTION

Cardiac arrest in the perioperative setting is an extremely serious event that is estimated to occur between 4.6 and 19.7 per 10,000 anesthetics.(1-5) While risk factors for cardiac complications can be identified pre- operatively, in many cases workup of risk factors are not indicated by standard pre-operative testing guidelines.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We present a case of a 47-year-old female undergoing an elective bilateral mastectomy who suddenly converted to ventricular fibrillation. While ventricular fibrillation is not a unique finding, our search for its etiology revealed two previously undiagnosed cardiac conditions, and possible electro- cautery induced ventricular fibrillation.

DISCUSSION

In this case study, we discuss the possible etiology of ventricular fibrillation in our patient and highlight the importance pre-operative patient investigation and history provide.

CONCLUSION

Searching for the potential causes that may have contributed to the cardiac arrest is an extremely useful exercise as it allows us to better prepare patients pre-operatively, improve intra-operative care, and prevent future cardiac events.