Sinus arrest induced by trivial nasal stimulation during alfentanil-nitrous oxide anaesthesia.
A case is reported of bradycardia and sinus arrest induced by insertion of a nasal temperature probe. Other possible causes of bradycardia and sinus arrest under anaesthesia are reviewed briefly. Evidence for the neurological basis of a nasocardiac reflex, similar to the oculocardiac reflex, is presented. A minor, trivial stimulus may elicit this reflex.
Bailey
P L
PL
Department of Anesthesiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City 84132.
D000328:Adult; D015760:Alfentanil; D000768:Anesthesia, General; D004562:Electrocardiography; D005260:Female; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D009609:Nitrous Oxide; D009666:Nose; D010812:Physical Stimulation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012021:Reflex, Abnormal
D015760:Alfentanil; D009609:Nitrous Oxide