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Electrocardiographic changes in elderly patients during small bowel enema
G M Zavras1, P J Papadaki, N G Kounis
1Department of Radiology, SOTIRIA, General Hospital, Athens, Greece.
Investigative Radiology
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Enteroclysis can cause transient cardiac arrhythmias in elderly patients, including increased heart rate and ectopics. These nonhazardous changes are likely due to sympathetic tone, anxiety, or underlying heart conditions.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Enteroclysis involves fluid infusion into the small bowel, causing distention.
- Electrocardiographic (ECG) changes during this procedure are not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of ECG changes during enteroclysis.
- To assess cardiac safety in elderly patients undergoing enteroclysis.
Main Methods:
- Continuous Holter monitoring and 12-lead ECGs were used in 30 elderly patients undergoing enteroclysis.
- A control group of 30 patients underwent routine gastrointestinal studies.
- Computerized ECG analysis sought arrhythmias, axis changes, conduction defects, pauses, and ST segment changes.
Main Results:
- Enteroclysis was associated with increased sympathetic tone, leading to higher heart rates and transient atrial/ventricular ectopics compared to controls.
- One patient experienced ventricular tachycardia; two had diminished heart rates, attributed to pre-existing conditions.
Conclusions:
- Elderly patients undergoing enteroclysis may experience transient, nonhazardous cardiac arrhythmias.
- These arrhythmias may stem from sympathetic activation due to bowel distention, patient anxiety, or pre-existing cardiac issues.