Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Utilizing the Modified T-Maze to Assess Functional Memory Outcomes After Cardiac Arrest
Published on: January 5, 2018
Cardiac arrest due to a vagal reflex potentiated by thoracic epidural analgesia
1Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea.
Abstract:
Reflex bradycardia and cardiac arrest may be the result of a vagal reflex, which can occur during a variety of surgical procedures. We report a patient who developed cardiac arrest as a result of a vagal reflex that was potentiated by thoracic epidural analgesia during general anaesthesia. A 53-year-old man was scheduled for subtotal gastrectomy because of an early gastric adenocarcinoma. After an epidural catheter had been inserted, general anaesthesia was induced. During surgery, an abdominal self-retaining retractor was set up but bradycardia and cardiac arrest developed. The patient returned to a normal sinus rhythm after successful resuscitation. We conclude that bradycardia as a result of a vagal reflex is mediated by potent abdominal wall traction and is potentiated by epidural analgesia. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can allow a full recovery, even in high-risk patients.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Epidural Anesthesia
Since epidural anesthetics can be infused through an epidural catheter, all types of drugs, including short-acting ones, can be administered. Chloroprocaine and lidocaine are examples of short and long-duration anesthetics, respectively. Bupivacaine...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation III: AED Use
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Spinal Anesthesia
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias
Cardiomyopathy VII: Pre and Post Operative Nursing Management

