[Intraoperative ventricular fibrillation in a patient with chronic cocaine abuse--a case report]

With increasing drug abuse of cocaine, the chances are growing that an anaesthetist comes into contact with an acutely intoxicated patient or chronic cocaine user while on call or during his daily routine. In South America chewing coca leaves is daily practise, while in the industrialised world the drug is sniffed, smoked or injected intravenously. Clinically, cocaine is used topically in ENT and ophthalmology due to its local analgesic and strong vasoconstrictive properties. Cocaine has a similar effect on the CNS as amphetamines and produces euphoria and hallucinations. Cocaine acts indirectly on sympathetic stimulation, release of dopamine and inhibition of catecholamine metabolism. It is metabolised in the liver and by serum esterases. Intoxication with cocaine leads to respiratory depression, arrhythmias, ventricular fibrillation and death. If an emergency operation during acute cocaine intoxication is necessary, all sympathomimetic anaesthetic drugs must be avoided. A deep anaesthesia must be provided to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. In the literature, anaesthesia is regarded as safe for patients with chronic cocaine misuse after abstinence of 24 hours. This case report shows that, even without acute intoxication, severe cardiovascular problems are possible in patients with chronic cocaine abuse. Hence, we recommend a cocaine-free interval of at least one week before elective surgical procedures.