Severe bradycardia in a child with an implanted vagus nerve stimulator undergoing laparoscopy -A case report.
Ramón Eizaga Rebollar, José Manuel Muñoz Quintero, Rafael Eduardo López Alfaro
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Case in brief
A 13-year-old child with a vagus nerve stimulator underwent laparoscopy-assisted gastrostomy tube placement under general anesthesia. During the procedure, a severe bradycardia episode occurred due to pneumoperitoneum. The bradycardia was effectively managed with pharmacological intervention while keeping the device activated, highlighting the importance of tailored perioperative management.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider the implications of vagus nerve stimulators during anesthesia, as maintaining device activation may be beneficial in patients with recent seizure activity.
Why it matters
This case underscores the need for individualized perioperative strategies when managing patients with implanted vagus nerve stimulators, particularly in high-risk surgical settings.