Korean J Anesthesiol.  2016 Feb;69(1):63-65. 10.4097/kjae.2016.69.1.63.

Vagally mediated atrioventricular block with ventricular asystole immediately after assuming prone position under spinal anestheisa: a case report

• Kim KO
• Oh JS

• KMID: 2152862
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4097/kjae.2016.69.1.63

Abstract

Vagally mediated atrioventricular (AV) block is a condition which a paroxysmal AV block occurs with the slowing of the sinus rate. Owing to its unpredictability and benign nature, it often goes unrecognized in clinical practice. We present the case of a 49-year-old man who suddenly lost consciousness when he assumed a prone position for hemorrohoidectomy under spinal anesthesia; continuous electrocardiographic recording revealed AV block with ventricular asystole. He was completely recovered after returning to a supine position. This case calls our attention to fatal manifestation of vagally mediated AV block leading to syncope.

Keyword

Atrioventricular block; Prone position; Spinal anesthesia; Vasovagal syncope

MeSH Terms

Anesthesia, Spinal
Atrioventricular Block*
Consciousness
Electrocardiography
Heart Arrest*
Humans
Middle Aged
Prone Position*
Supine Position
Syncope
Syncope, Vasovagal