title: Benzocaine induced methemoglobinemia: a potentially fatal complication of transesophageal echocardiography.
abstract: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a relatively safe procedure with complications including bleeding, esophageal perforation, and respiratory failure being rare. One of our patients recently developed severe cyanosis despite pulse oximetry of 85% following TEE. This directs our attention to a rare, easily treatable, but potentially fatal complication of this procedure.
authors: Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute, Department of Cardiology, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA.
authors: Keshav
authors: K
authors: Chander
authors: Carl J
authors: CJ
authors: Lavie
authors: Hector O
authors: HO
authors: Ventura
authors: Richard V
authors: RV
authors: Milani