[Experience of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome After Operation:Total Arch Replacement for Stanford Type A Acute Aortic...

A 50-year-old woman underwent total arch replacement for Stanford type A acute aortic dissection. Postoperatively, she became delirious and experienced difficulty maintaining rest, so haloperidol was used. Due to persistent high fever and markedly elevated serum levels of creatinine kinase, neuroleptic malignant syndrome was suspected. We discontinued haloperidol and started dantrolene. During the same period, we ruled out infections, central nervous system disorders, and organ ischemia due to dissection. Administration of dantrolene achieved a good outcome, with reduction of fever and improvement of creatinine kinase levels. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome after aortic dissection surgery is very rare and includes numerous differential diagnoses. However, prompt action is important because delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to deterioration in the general condition of the patient.