Sudden arrhythmia in the prone position during spinal surgery: A case report

The prone position is the most commonly required position during spinal surgery. Decreasing lumbar lordosis is necessary to facilitate the accessibility of the surgical field. And this can affect the hemodynamic circulation of the patients. The Jackson spine table is one of the most preferred methods, known to have minimal effects on cardiac function.

We report a case of sudden arrhythmia that developed during the prone position using a Jackson spine table. It occurred 30 minutes after the positional change.

Arrhythmia showed bizarre P and QRS waves. Ectopic P, bundle branch block, or both was suspected.

Because it was difficult to define the exact type or cause of this sudden arrhythmia and considering that other vital signs remained stable, we decided to keep close observation during the operation rather than applying uncertain antiarrhythmic medication.

Arrhythmia spontaneously developed and subsided repeatedly. And it recovered to normal sinus rhythm immediately after the positional change to the supine position. Therefore, increased intrathoracic pressure caused by the prone position was highly suspected to be the cause of this event.

Although the Jackson spine table is known to have the least effect on cardiac function, the patient experienced arrhythmia in our case. Hence, to achieve better clinical outcomes, an understanding of physiological alterations and possible complications caused by the prone position is necessary for earlier diagnosis and management.