Electrocautery-induced asystole in a scoliosis patient with a pacemaker

Pediatric heart condition management may include a variety of implanted cardiac devices. Monopolar electrocautery (Bovie) produces significant electromagnetic interference to these devices. This interference can alter the function of a cardiac generator resulting in a variety of complications includ...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inJournal of pediatric orthopaedics. B Vol. 16; no. 1; p. 19
Main Authors Bales, Joshua G, Colon, Jimmie, Ramadhyani, Usha, LeDoux, Elma, Bennett, James T
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.01.2007
Subjects
Adolescent
Electrocoagulation - adverse effects
Female
Heart Arrest - etiology
Heart Block - congenital
Heart Block - therapy
Humans
Intraoperative Complications
Pacemaker, Artificial
Scoliosis - surgery
Spinal Fusion
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Summary:Pediatric heart condition management may include a variety of implanted cardiac devices. Monopolar electrocautery (Bovie) produces significant electromagnetic interference to these devices. This interference can alter the function of a cardiac generator resulting in a variety of complications including impaired cardiac output and asystole. We report the case of a 16 plus 2-year-old girl who presented with idiopathic scoliosis and a past medical history significant for complete congenital heart block treated with a DDD*** pacemaker. During surgery, the use monopolar electrocautery caused the patient to develop asystole and loss of pulsatile blood pressure. Electrocautery was subsequently terminated, the patient then returned to a normal sinus rhythm and blood pressure normalized.
ISSN:1060-152X
1473-5865
DOI:10.1097/01.bpb.0000236222.68583.4e