Vasovagal Syncope and Transient Asystole During Peripheral Nerve Blockade

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pain Medicine
• Cardiology

Background:

• Vasovagal syncope is a known complication of various medical procedures, including chronic pain interventions, phlebotomy, and injections.
• Its occurrence during peripheral nerve block procedures, however, remains undocumented in medical literature.

Observation:

• A patient undergoing a lower extremity peripheral nerve block experienced an episode of vasovagal syncope.
• This vasovagal syncope led to a transient asystole, a temporary cessation of heartbeat.

Findings:

• This case represents the first reported instance of vasovagal syncope during a peripheral nerve block.
• The patient's condition stabilized after the procedure was halted and treated with ephedrine, atropine, and intravenous fluids.

Implications:

• This report underscores the potential for vasovagal syncope during peripheral nerve blocks, necessitating heightened awareness among practitioners.
• It emphasizes the importance of preparedness for managing such adverse events in pain management settings.
• Further investigation into the incidence and specific triggers of vasovagal syncope in this context may be warranted.