title: Asystole From Direct Laryngoscopy: A Case Report and Literature Review.
abstract: The rare and potentially fatal complication of asystole during direct laryngoscopy is linked to direct vagal stimulation. This case describes asystole in an 85-year-old female who underwent suspension microlaryngoscopy with tracheal dilation for subglottic stenosis. Quick recognition of this rare event with immediate cessation of laryngoscopy resulted in the return of normal sinus rhythm. This incident emphasizes the implications of continued vigilance during laryngoscopy and the importance of communication between the anesthesia and surgical staff to identify and treat this rare complication. The case was successfully concluded by premedication with an anticholinergic and by increasing the depth of anesthesia.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
authors.forename: Andrew J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Redmann
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
authors.forename: Gregory D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: White
authors.affiliation: Department of Anesthesia, Division of Cardiac Anesthesia, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
authors.forename: Benu
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Makkad
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
authors.forename: Rebecca
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Howell
mesh_terms: D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D007828:Laryngoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects*
keywords: Anesthesia.; Asystole; Laryngoscopy