Beyond trauma: The unforeseen challenge of Brugada syndrome

Brugada syndrome, a rare cardiac disorder stemming from mutations in sodium channels, manifests as ventricular arrhythmias, potentially culminating in sudden cardiac death. This case involves a 37-year-old male with a right type 3C open elbow fracture-dislocation and brachial artery injury, who presented with ST-segment changes in avR, v1, v2, and v3. After induction with general anesthesia, postoperative evaluation and cardiac consultation revealed a diagnosis of Brugada syndrome, specifically displaying a Brugada type 1 pattern. The electrocardiogram pattern of Brugada syndrome can mimic acute myocardial infarction, posing a challenge for anesthetists to recognize this rare cardiac condition in emergency situations. Given its association with ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death, prompt identification is crucial for appropriate management. This case emphasizes the potential misdiagnosis of Brugada syndrome as traumatic myocardial injury in emergency care.