Perioperative hiccup mystery: A comprehensive case report

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Surgical Recovery
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Persistent hiccups are an uncommon but significant complication in the perioperative setting.
• Hiccups can negatively affect patient comfort and surgical recovery.
• Neuraxial anesthesia and surgical procedures can potentially trigger or exacerbate hiccups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of persistent hiccups developing during and after total knee replacement surgery.
• To illustrate the multidisciplinary approach required for managing such cases.
• To emphasize the multifactorial nature of perioperative hiccups and the need for more research.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 51-year-old male patient.
• Monitoring and management during and after total knee replacement under neuraxial anesthesia.
• Introduction of a central-acting muscle relaxant (baclofen) for treatment.

Main Results:

• The patient developed persistent hiccups during the surgical procedure.
• Hiccups continued into the postoperative period, requiring intervention.
• Baclofen was administered as part of a multidisciplinary management strategy.

Conclusions:

• Managing persistent hiccups in the perioperative period is complex and often requires a tailored, multidisciplinary approach.
• The etiology and treatment of perioperative hiccups are multifactorial.
• Further research is needed to establish optimal management guidelines for persistent hiccups in surgical patients.