Successful extended cerebrocardiopulmonary resuscitation of a sudden death patient: A case report

Publication date: July–September 2014 Source:Colombian Journal of Anesthesiology, Volume 42, Issue 3 Author(s): Javier Garcia Reyes This is the case of a 63-year-old patient, who is a plastic surgeon and has a history of aortic valve replacement, hypertension, pacemaker and anticoagulation, who experienced cardiac sudden death in the OR. Basic and advanced life support maneuvers were initiated; there was evidence of ventricular fibrillation and the patient was defibrillated 4 times unsuccessfully. Epinephrine, bicarbonate, amiodarone and lidocaine were administered. The patient alternated between ventricular fibrillation, pulseless electrical activity and asystole. Resuscitation was maintained throughout the process which lasted one hour and 45min, including transfer to a third level clinic where the patient was considered to be asystolic. Following an additional discharge and amiodarone, the patient recovered spontaneous circulation; the vital signs were normalized and the patient remained in the ICU under hemodynamically stable conditions. After 18h, the patient woke up with no evident neurological damage and remained in the ICU for one month for treatment of the ischemic-reperfusion syndrome. After 20 more days of physical therapy in his hospital room, the patient was discharged with no neurological deficit and a recommendation for home-based rehabilitation. Three months later, the patient is doing perfectly well and leading an active family, social and labor life. ...

Source: Colombian Journal of Anesthesiology - October 12, 2014 Category: Anesthesiology Source Type: research