Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is frequently performed during conscious sedation not provided by an anesthesiologist. Several monitors are used during conscious sedation, one of which is the electrocardiogram (EKG). Equipment used in the operating room may interfere with the EKG tracing.
Methods
A 30-year-old man underwent his fourth functional endoscopic sinus surgery during general anesthesia. For the procedure, a Xomed Straight Shot microdebrider was used.
Results
Because of stray electrical current, the use of the microdebrider caused the EKG waveform to resemble ventricular tachycardia.
Conclusion
This case alerts the clinician to this possible occurrence to prevent inappropriate therapeutics from being initiated.
References
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CaronM.F., KlugerJ., and WhiteC.M.Amiodarone in the new AHA guidelines for ventricular tachyarrhythmias.Ann Pharmacother35: 1248–1254, 2001.
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