Conversion of atrial dissociation with lidocaine in a dog

A 3-year-old healthy dog was presented for abdominal surgery following ingestion of razor blades. An electrocardiogram revealed a regular sinus bradycardia with normal P waves at a heart rate of 45 bpm. In addition, low-amplitude positive deflections (p' waves) were visualized at a regular interval and rapid rate of 250 bpm, dissociated from the normal sinus P waves. A tentative diagnosis of atrial dissociation was proposed. Administration of lidocaine abolished the p' waves. This case describes atrial dissociation observed following premedication that was successfully terminated using lidocaine in a healthy dog.