Brugada syndrome and its relevance in the perioperative period

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Genetics
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Brugada syndrome is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder.
• It is characterized by an increased risk of sudden cardiac death and ventricular tachyarrhythmias.
• Defective cardiac sodium channels lead to specific electrocardiographic findings (coved-type ST elevation).

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the anesthetic considerations for patients with Brugada syndrome undergoing non-cardiac surgery.
• To emphasize the risks associated with perioperative management in these patients.
• To underscore the importance of knowledge of inherited conduction disorders for safe surgical procedures.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on Brugada syndrome and anesthesia.
• Analysis of potential perioperative triggers for arrhythmias.
• Discussion of safe anesthetic management strategies.

Main Results:

• Most patients with Brugada syndrome tolerate anesthesia and surgery well.
• Perioperative factors like medications, fever, and electrolyte imbalances can exacerbate ST elevation and arrhythmias.
• Increased prevalence of patients with inherited conduction disorders undergoing surgery necessitates specialized knowledge.

Conclusions:

• Safe anesthetic management for patients with Brugada syndrome requires a thorough understanding of the condition.
• Awareness of potential perioperative risks is crucial for preventing adverse cardiac events.
• Knowledge of inherited conduction disorders is essential for anesthesiologists managing patients for non-cardiac surgery.