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Intraoperative pacemaker dysfunction caused by the use of electrocautery during a total hip arthroplasty
O A Nercessian1, H Wu, D Nazarian
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, New York Orthopaedic Hospital, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, USA.
The Journal of Arthroplasty
|September 3, 1998
Summary
Pacemaker dysfunction is a rare risk during orthopedic surgery. Electrocautery use can lead to pacemaker failure, as seen in a total hip replacement case.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Cardiovascular Implants
Background:
- Orthopedic procedures are increasingly common in aging populations, many of whom have pacemakers.
- Electrocautery is standard for hemostasis in major orthopedic surgeries.
- Pacemaker dysfunction during these procedures is a rare but serious complication.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing total hip replacement experienced pacemaker failure.
- This failure occurred after a single use of unipolar electrocautery.
Findings:
- Electrocautery, particularly unipolar, poses a risk of pacemaker malfunction.
- This case highlights a specific instance of pacemaker failure linked to electrocautery.
Implications:
- Orthopedic surgeons must be aware of the risks associated with electrocautery in pacemaker patients.
- Careful consideration and potential alternative hemostasis methods may be needed.
- Further research into safe electrocautery use in pacemaker patients is warranted.