J Korean Dent Soc Anesthesiol.  2012 Sep;12(3):151-155. 10.17245/jkdsa.2012.12.3.151.

New Mechanism of Vasovagal Syncope: Trigeminocardiac Reflex

• Yoon JY
• Kim CH

• KMID: 2345039
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.17245/jkdsa.2012.12.3.151

Abstract

A vasovagal reaction is defined as the 'development of hypotension and bradycardia associated with the typical clinical manifestations of pallor, sweating and weakness' The most profound degree of vasovagal reaction results in fainting or syncope. Incidence of vasovagal reactions in the local anesthetic department of a dental hospital is around 2%. The pathophysiology of the hypotension/bradycardia reflex responsible for vasovagal syncope is not completely understood. Central as well as peripheral mechanisms have been implicated in its pathogenesis: however their relative contribution is not fully elucidated. Recently, trigeminocardiac reflex, previously known as oculocardiac reflex, may serve as syncope. The management of vasovagal syncope is evolving. Non-pharmacological treatment options are a fundamental first step of all treatment pathways. In this article, we would like to review new mechanism of vasovagal syncope and hope to be of help to manage the syncopal patients.

Keyword

Bradycardia; Hypotension; Trigeminocardiac reflex; Vasovagal syncope

MeSH Terms

Bradycardia
Hope
Humans
Hypotension
Incidence
Pallor
Reflex
Reflex, Oculocardiac
Reflex, Trigeminocardiac*
Sweat
Sweating
Syncope
Syncope, Vasovagal*