Torsades de Pointes During Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy of a Pheochromocytoma: A Case Report
Author Information
Author(s): K. van der Heide, de Haes Ann, Wietasch Götz J.K., Wiesfeld Ans C.P., Hendriks Herman G.D.
Primary Institution: University Medical Centre Groningen
Hypothesis
Can perioperative conditions elicit an acquired or previously unknown congenital long QT syndrome in patients undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma?
Conclusion
The case illustrates that surgical removal of a pheochromocytoma can trigger Torsades de Pointes even in patients without preoperative QT prolongation.
Supporting Evidence
- Torsades de Pointes is a rare but potentially lethal arrhythmia.
- The patient had no QT prolongation preoperatively.
- An acquired long QT syndrome was likely due to medication and surgical stress.
- Preoperative α- and β-blockade is advised to prevent complications.
Takeaway
Sometimes, during surgery for a tumor in the adrenal gland, a patient's heart can start beating irregularly, even if they seemed fine before. This can happen because of certain medications and stress from the surgery.
Methodology
Case report detailing the perioperative management and outcomes of a patient undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
42-year-old Caucasian woman.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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