Bradycardia in a pediatric population after sugammadex administration: case series

Abstract Sugammadex is a distinctive neuromuscular reversal drug that acts by encapsulating the neuromuscular relaxant molecule and dislodging it from its site of action. Sugammadex has been approved for pediatric patients over 2 years of age. Although arrhythmias have been reported, there is no report of adverse effects in healthy children, such as severe bradycardia requiring intervention. We report two cases of severe bradycardia immediately after the administration of sugammadex in healthy children. Our aim is to alert to the occurrence of one of the most severe adverse effects of sugammadex, in the healthy pediatric population as well.

Approach to bradyarrhythmias: A proposed algorithm

Bradyarrhythmias are commonly encountered in clinical practice. While there are several electrocardiographic criteria and algorithms for tachyarrhythmias, there is no algorithm for bradyarrhythmias to the best of our knowledge. In this article, we propose a diagnostic algorithm that uses simple concepts: (1) the presence or absence of P waves, (2) the relationship between the number of P waves and QRS complexes, and (3) the regularity of time intervals (PP, PR and RR intervals). We believe this straightforward, stepwise method provides a structured and thorough approach to the wide differential diagnosis of bradyarrhythmias, and in doing so, reduces misdiagnosis and mismanagement.

Changes in gap junction proteins Connexin30. 2 and Connexin40 expression in the sinoatrial node of rats with dexmedetomidine-induced sinus bradycardia

Abstract Background Dexmedetomidine (Dex) is widely used, and its most common side effect is bradycardia. The complete mechanism through which Dex induces bradycardia has not been elucidated. This research investigates the expression of gap junction proteins Connexin30.2 (Cx30.2) and Connexin40 (Cx40) within the sinoatrial node of rats with Dex-induced sinus bradycardia. Methods Eighty rats were randomly assigned to five groups. Saline was administered to rats in Group C. In the other four groups, the rats were administered Dex to induce bradycardia. In groups D1and D2, the rats were administered Dex at a loading dose of 30 μg.kg−1 and 100 μg.kg−1 for 10 min, then at 15 μg.kg−1.h−1 and 50 μg.kg−1.h−1 for 120 min separately. The rats in group D1A and D2A were administered Dex in the same way as in group D1and D2; however, immediately after the administration of the loading dose, 0.5 mg atropine was administered intravenously, and then at 0.5 mg.kg−1.h−1 for 120 min. The sinoatrial node was acquired after intravenous infusion was completed. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses were performed to measure mRNA and protein expression of Cx30.2 and Cx40, respectively. Results The expression of Cx30.2 increased, whereas the expression of Cx40 decreased within the sinoatrial node of rats with Dex-induced sinus bradycardia. Atropine reversed the effects of Dex on the expression of gap junction proteins. Conclusion Dex possibly altered the expression of gap junction proteins to slow down cardiac conduction velocity in the sinoatrial node.

Tecnologia educacional para o manejo do marca-passo transcutâneo em idosos no atendimento pré-hospitalar móvel / Educational technology for the management of transcutaneous pacemakers in the elderly in mobile pre-hospital care

Resumo: Esta pesquisa compreende a produção de um vídeo educativo sobre ações e cuidados do enfermeiro no manejo do marca-passo transcutâneo em idosos em atendimento pré-hospitalar. Destaca-se a necessidade de elucidar o conhecimento e qualificar a assistência ao idoso a partir de recursos didáticos como o vídeo educativo. A pesquisa teve por objetivo elaborar uma tecnologia educacional para enfermeiros sobre o manejo do marca-passo transcutâneo em idosos em Atendimento Pré-Hospitalar Móvel. Trata-se de pesquisa metodológica de produção tecnológica, do tipo quantitativa descritiva, a qual baseia-se na construção e validação de um vídeo educativo, desenvolvido nas Unidades de Suporte Avançado do Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência, da 2ª Regional de Saúde Metropolitana do Estado do Paraná. O método de produção do vídeo foi composto por três fases: a) pré-produção, que consistiu na elaboração do roteiro do vídeo; b) produção, na qual ocorreu a validação do roteiro do vídeo por um grupo de juízes especialistas seguido da elaboração dos "storyboards", seleção das imagens, gravação das narrações e edição do vídeo; c) pós-produção, que se traduziu na validação do vídeo pelo grupo de juízes especialistas. Para a validação do roteiro foi utilizado um instrumento do tipo escala de "Likert" e para validação do vídeo um questionário elaborado e adaptado a partir do modelo de Razera et al. (2016). Após a validação pelos juízes, o vídeo foi divulgado em um canal do Youtube. Quanto ao conteúdo do roteiro foram elencados quatro blocos: conhecimentos gerais sobre o MPTC em idosos, cuidados de enfermagem na utilização do MPTC, etapas para o manejo do MPTC e as possíveis complicações e limitações na utilização do MPTC, e foi validado por 51 juízes especialistas. O vídeo foi validado por 47 juízes especialistas que participaram da etapa anterior. Em relação ao gênero dos juízes especialistas, as mulheres representaram na fase 1 da pesquisa (F1) 56,9% e na fase 2 (F2) 57,4%. Quanto à idade dos participantes a maioria apresentou entre 35 e 45 anos (F1 62,7% e F2 61,7%). Produziu-se um vídeo de duração de oito minutos e 30 segundos em animação 2D, fundamentado a partir de uma revisão integrativa e consultas em guias e "guidelines" de sociedades de cardiologia nacional e internacional que abordam as ações e cuidados no manejo do marca-passo transcutâneo em idosos. Conclui-se que a tecnologia desenvolvida, nos quesitos: linguagem, imagens, narração, adequação quanto ao tempo de duração, orientações propostas e memorizações das mensagens, alcançou índices que demostram a viabilidade na identificação das ações e cuidados pelo enfermeiro no manejo do marca-passo transcutâneo em idosos no atendimento pré-hospitalar. Assim, foi elaborada e validada uma estratégia para a educação em saúde que contribui para subsidiar a equipe na tomada de decisões, colaborando para a segurança do paciente e da equipe, assim como para o sucesso no tratamento. A tecnologia educacional desenvolvida pode ampliar e reciclar continuamente o conhecimento dos enfermeiros da Unidade de Suporte Avançado de Vida sobre as ações e cuidados essenciais no manuseio do MPTC em idoso com bradiarritmias no Atendimento Pré-Hospitalar Móvel.

Abstract: This research grasps the production of an educational video about the handling of the transcutaneous pacemaker (TCPM) in elderly in Mobile Pre-Hospital Care. The need to clarify knowledge and qualify the elderly's care through didactic resources, such as the educational video, is highlighted. The aim of the research was to elaborate an educational technology for nurses about the handling of the transcutaneous pacemaker (TCPM) in elderly in Mobile Pre-Hospital Care. This is a methodological research of technology production, of the quantitative descriptive type, which is based in the construction and validation of an educational video, developed in Advanced Care Units (ACUs) of Mobile Emergency Medical Service, of the 2nd Metropolitan Health Regional of the State of Paraná. The production method of the video was composed by three phases: a) pre-production, which consisted in the screenplay elaboration; b) production, in which there was the validation of the video screenplay by a group of specialist judges followed by the elaboration of storyboards, selection of images, recordings of narrations and video editing; c) post-production, which consisted in the validation of the video by the group of specialist judges. For the validation of the screenplay a scale-like "likert" instrument was used, and for the validation of the video, a questionnaire made and adapted from Razera's et al model. (2016). After validation by the judges, the video was shared on a Youtube channel. As for the content of the screenplay, they were divided in four blocks: general knowledge about TCPM in elderly, nursing care when using TCPM, phases for the handling of TCPM and the possible complications and limitations utilizing TCPM, it was approved by 51 specialist judges. The video itself was approved by 47 specialist judges who took part in the former phase. With respect to gender of the specialist judges, women represented in phase 1 of the research (P1) 56.9% and in phase 2 (P2) 57.4%. As for the age of participants, most of them were between 35 and 45 years old (P1 62.7% and P2 61.7%). There was the production of a video lasting eight minutes and 30 seconds in 2D animation, reasoned by an integrative review and bibliographic research in guidelines of national and international cardiology societies that approach nurses' actions and care in the handling of the transcutaneous pacemaker in elderly in prehospital care. It concludes that the developed technology in terms of language, images, narration, adjustment to duration time, proposed guidance and message memorization, reached indexes that show viability in identification of nurses' actions and care in the handling of the transcutaneous pacemaker in elderly in pre-hospital care. Therefore, it was elaborated and validated a strategy for health education, that contributes to subsidize the team in decision making, contributing to the safety of the patient and the team, as well as for treatment success. The developed educational technology can broaden and continually recycle the knowledge of nurses from the Units of Intensive Life Support (SAV) about necessary actions and care in the handling of the transcutaneous pacemaker in elderly with bradyarrhythmia in Mobile Pre-Hospital Care.

Estimulación cardíaca temporal de larga duración con cable activo y marcapaso permanente externo / Long-term temporary cardiac pacing with active lead and external permanent pacemaker

INTRODUCCIÓN. La estimulación cardíaca temporal de larga duración con cable activo y marcapaso permanente externo es una técnica recientemente incluida en las guías de manejo de bradicardias sintomáticas. CASOS CLÍNICOS. Se describen 4 casos de pacientes sometidos a estimulación cardíaca temporal de larga duración con cable activo y marcapaso permanente externo de la unidad de Hemodinámica del Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín, con indicaciones diversas. DISCUSIÓN. El tiempo medio de permanencia con el cable activo y el marcapaso externalizado fue 23 días. No hubo complicaciones del procedimiento. Un paciente falleció por causas no relacionadas con la estimulación y 2 se recuperaron en sus domicilios. CONCLUSIÓN. La técnica de estimulación temporal utilizando marcapasos permanentes recuperados se muestra extremadamente útil para mantener un marcapaso cardíaco seguro, incluso ambulatorio y por largo tiempo, hasta el implante de dispositivos definitivos. Su limitación es la factibilidad de hacerlo solo en centros de tercer nivel.

INTRODUCTION. Long-duration temporary cardiac pacing with active lead and permanent external pacemaker is a technique recently included in the guidelines for the management of symptomatic bradycardias. CLINICAL CASES. We describe 4 cases of patients who underwent long-duration temporary cardiac pacing with active lead and external permanent pacemaker at the Hemodynamics Unit of the Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín, with different indications. DISCUSSION. The mean length of stay with the active lead and externalized pacemaker was 23 days. There were no procedural complications. One patient died of causes unrelated to pacing and 2 recovered at home. CONCLUSIONS. The technique of temporary pacing using retrieved permanent pacemakers is extremely useful for maintaining safe cardiac pacing, even on an outpatient basis and for a long period of time, until implantation of definitive devices. Its limitation is the feasibility of doing it only in third level centers.

Atribuições do enfermeiro no manejo do marcapasso transcutâneo em pacientes idosos: Uma revisão integrativa / Asignaciones del enfermero em el manejo del marcapasos transcutáneo en anciano: Una revisión integrativa / Nurse attributions in the handling of transcutaneous pacemaker in elderly patients: Integrative review

Objetivo: investigar a produção científica nacional e internacional sobre as ações e cuidados do enfermeiro no manejo do marca-passo transcutâneo em idosos. Método: revisão integrativa, realizada nas bases de dados "Scopus", "Web of Science", "EMBASE", "PUBMED", "MEDLINE", no período de 2012 a 2022. Resultados: foram selecionados oito artigos, todos internacionais, somente um conduzido por enfermeiros. Categorizados por: (1) Possibilidades e limitações no uso do marca-passo trânscutâneo na prática clínica; (2) Cuidados de enfermagem na utilização do marca-passo transcutâneo em idosos e (3) Sistematização da Assistência de Enfermagem e a abordagem ao paciente em uso de marca-passo transcutâneo. Conclusão: os principais cuidados de enfermagem ao idoso que utiliza o marca-passo transcutâneo são: prevenção de queimaduras cutâneas; administração de medicamentos; manejo da dor; monitoramento dos dados vitais; avaliação da captura mecânica; investigação do histórico familiar; medicações em uso; realização do exame físico e acesso venoso periférico.(AU)

Objective: : to investigate the national and international scientific production regarding the actions and handling of the transcutaneous pacemaker in elderly. Method: integrative review, made in the databases Scopus", "Web of Science", "EMBASE", "PUBMED", and "MEDLINE", for the period 2012 to 2022. Findings: there were selected eight articles, all international, and only one conducted by nurses. Categorized into: (1) Possibilities and limitations of the use from the transcutaneous pacemaker in clinical practice; (2) Nursing care when utilizing transcutaneous pacemaker in elderly and (3) Systematization of Nursing Care and approach to patients using transcutaneous pacemaker. Conclusion: the main Nursing Care approaches to elderly who use transcutaneous pacemaker are prevent skin burn; drug administration; pain management; monitoring vital signs; evaluation of heart activity; investigating family history and drugs in use; performing physical examination and peripheral venous access.(AU)

Objetivo: investigar cual és lá produccion científica nacional e internacional sobre Las acciones y cuidados del enfermero en el manejo del marca-pado intracutaneo en ancianos. Método: Revision Integrativa realizada en Las bases de datos "Scopus" web of Science", EMBASE", "PUBMED", "MEDLINE", durante el período 2012 a 2022. Resultados: fueron Seleccionados ocho articulos todos internacionales, solanemente uno fue llevado a cabo por enfermeros. Categorizado por (1) posibilidades y limitaciones en El uso del marca-paso intracutaneo en lá práctica clínica; (2) cuidados de enfermeria en lá utilização del marca-paso intracutaneo y (3) sistematizacion de la assistencia de enfermeria y el abordaje del paciente que usa marca-paso intracutaneo. Conclusion: Los principales cuidados de enfermeria Al anciano que utiliza marca-paso intracutaneo son: prevencion de quemaduras cutaneas; administracion de medicamentos, manejo del dolor, monitorizacion de datos vitales, evaluacion de lá captura mecanica, investigação del histórico famíliar, medicaciones en uso, realizacion de examen fisico y acceso venoso periférico.(AU)

Prevention of dexmedetomidine on postoperative delirium and early postoperative cognitive dysfunction in elderly patients undergoing hepatic lobectomy / 中南大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVES@#Postoperative delirium (POD) and postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) are common operative neurocognitive disorders, which places a heavy burden on patients, families and society. Therefore, it is very important to search for preventive drugs. Previous studies have demonstrated that perioperative use of dexmedetomidine resulted in a decrease the incidence of POD and POCD. But the specific effect of dexmedetomidine on elderly patients undergoing hepatic lobectomy and its potential mechanism are not clear. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of intraoperative use of dexmedetomidine on preventing POD and POCD in elderly patients undergoing hepatic lobectomy and the influence on the balance between proinflammation and anti-inflammation.@*METHODS@#This trial was designed as a single-center, prospective, randomized, controlled study. One hundred and twenty hospitalized patients from January 2019 to December 2020, aged 60-80 years old with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) II-III and scheduled for hepatic lobectomy, were randomly allocated into 3 groups (n=40) using a random number table: A C group, a Dex1 group, and a Dex2 group. After anesthesia induction, saline in the C group, dexmedetomidine [0.3 μg/(kg·h)] in the Dex1 group, and dexmedetomidine [0.6 μg/(kg·h)] in the Dex2 group were infused until the end of operation. The incidences of hypotension and bradycardia were compared among the 3 groups. Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) for assessing POD and Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) for evaluating POCD were recorded and venous blood samples were obtained for the determination of neuron specific enolase (NSE), TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10 at the different time below: the time before anesthesia (T0), and the first day (T1), the third day (T2), the fifth day (T3), and the seventh day (T4) after operation.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the C group, the incidences of bradycardia in the Dex1 group or the Dex2 group increased (both P<0.05) and there was no difference in hypotension in the Dex1 group or the Dex2 group (both P>0.05). The incidences of POD in the C group, the Dex1 group, and the Dex2 group were 22.5%, 5.0%, and 7.5%, respectively. The incidences of POD in the Dex1 group or the Dex2 group declined significantly as compared to the C group (both P<0.05). However, there is no difference in the incidence of POD between the Dex1 group and the Dex2 group (P>0.05). The incidences of POCD in the C group, the Dex1 group, and the Dex2 group were 30.0%, 12.5%, and 10.0%, respectively. The incidences of POCD in the Dex1 group and the Dex2 group declined significantly as compared to the C group (both P<0.05). And no obvious difference was seen in the incidence of POCD in the Dex1 group and the Dex2 group (P>0.05). Compared with the C group, the level of TNF-α and IL-1β decreased and the level of IL-10 increased at each time points (from T1 to T4) in the Dex1 group and the Dex2 group (all P<0.05). Compared with the Dex1 group, the level of IL-1β at T2 and IL-10 from T1 to T3 elevated in the Dex2 group (all P<0.05). Compared with the T0, the concentrations of NSE in C group at each time points (from T1 to T4) and in the Dex1 group and the Dex2 group from T1 to T3 increased (all P<0.05). Compared with the C group, the level of NSE decreased from T1 to T4 in the Dex1 group and the Dex2 group (all P<0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Intraoperative dexmedetomidine infusion can reduce the incidence of POCD and POD in elderly patients undergoing hepatic lobectomy, and the protective mechanism appears to involve the down-regulation of TNF-α and IL-1β and upregulation of IL-10 expression, which lead to rebalance between proinflammation and anti-inflammation.

Effect of dexamethasone combined with oxybuprocaine hydrochloride gel on prevention of postoperative sore throat after nasal endoscopy / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the effectiveness and feasibility of dexamethasone combined with oxybuprocaine hydrochloride gel on the prevention of postoperative sore throat after nasal endoscopy.@*METHODS@#In the study, 60 patients with American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) physical statuses Ⅰ to Ⅱ, aged 18 to 72 years, scheduled for elective nasal endoscope surgery under general anesthesia requiring endotracheal intubation were randomly divided into dexamethasone combined with oxybuprocaine hydrochloride gel group (G group, n=30) and control group (C group, n=30). The patients in the G group received dexamethasone 0.1 mg/kg before induction and the oxybuprocaine gel was applied to the endotracheal catheter cuff and the front end within 15 cm. The patients in the C group received the same dose of saline and the saline was applied to the endotracheal catheter cuff and the front end within 15 cm. Then, all the patients in the two groups received the same induction and anesthesia maintainance. The operation time, anesthesia time, emergence time, extubation time and departure time were recorded. The intraoperative infusion volume, blood loss volume, propofol, remifentanil, rocuronium dosage were also recorded. The adverse reactions such as intraoperative hypotension, bradycardia and postoperative agitation were recorded. The postoperative sore throat score was recorded at the end of operation and 4 h, 8 h, 12 h, and 24 h after operation.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the C group, the emergence time [(8.4±3.9) min vs. (10.8±4.7) min], extubation time [(8.8±3.7) min vs. (11.9±4.8) min], and departure time [(20.0±5.3) min vs. (23.0±5.8) min] were significantly shorter, and the propofol dosage [(11.8±1.8) mg/kg vs. (15.9±4.6) mg/kg], remifentanil dosage [(10.9±4.7) μg/kg vs. (14.1±3.6) μg/kg] were significantly less in the G group, and there was no difference of rocuronium dosage in the two groups. Compared with the C group the incidence of intraoperative hypotension [10%(3/30) vs. 30%(9/30)], bradycardia [16.7%(5/30) vs. 20%(6/30)] and postoperative agitation [6.7%(2/30) vs. 23.3%(7/30)] were significantly lower in the C group. The postoperative sore throat score at the end of operation, 4 h, 8 h, 12 h and 24 h after operation in the G group were significantly lower than in the C group respectively [0 (0, 1) vs. 1 (1, 2), 0 (0, 0) vs. 1 (1, 2), 0 (0, 0) vs. 1 (1, 2), 0 (0, 0) vs. 1 (0.75, 1), 0 (0, 0) vs. 1 (0, 1)].@*CONCLUSION@#Dexamethasone combined with oxybuprocaine hydrochloride gel was effective and feasible on the prevention of postoperative sore throat after nasal endoscopy.

Initial Experience with Fractionation Mapping in the Identification of Vagal Ganglionated Plexus During Cardioneuroablation

This is a series case report of five symptomatic patients presented with diagnosis of sinus bradycardia, first and second degrees atrioventricular (AV) blocks, that were referred to pacemaker implantation. During the screening, a functional cause for the bradycardia and AV blocks were documented by treadmill stress test, 24-hour Holter monitoring and atropine test. After the confirmation of the diagnosis, patients were submitted to cardioneuroablation on an anatomical basis supported by a tridimensional electroanatomical fractionation mapping software. The technique and the acute and short-term results of the cardioneuroablation are described.

Cardiac dysrhythmias in systemic sclerosis / Alteraciones del ritmo cardíaco en esclerosis sistémica

Systemic sclerosis is an immunological disorder characterized by tissue fibrosis and multi-organ dysfunction.1 The accompanying images exhibit electrocardiographic changes in severe systemic sclerosis. Advanced 3:1 atrioventricular block, best observed in Lead Vi, suggests extensive fibrosis of the conduction system (Image A). While one P wave is buried in the T wave (black arrows), two are evident (red arrows) along the isoelectric line. Bradyarrhythmia related prolonged QT interval, best measured in Lead II represents increased risk for torsades-de-pointes, a polymorphic ventricular tachyarrhythmia. Additionally, right bundle branch block with giant T wave inversions (T wave depth > 10 mm) in precordial leads V2- 4 suggests pulmonary hypertension. Post-induction the rhythm abruptly changes to torsades-de-pointes (Image B) necessitating defibrillation.

La esclerosis sistémica es un trastorno inmunológico caracterizado por fibrosis tisular y disfunción multiorgánica. 1 Las imágenes adjuntas muestran cambios electrocardiográficos en la esclerosis sistémica grave. El bloqueo auriculoventricular avanzado 3: 1, que se observa mejor en la derivación VI, sugiere una fibrosis extensa del sistema de conducción ( Imagen A ).Mientras que una onda P está enterrada en la onda T (flechas negras), dos son evidentes (flechas rojas) a lo largo de la línea isoeléctrica. El intervalo QT prolongado relacionado con bradiarritmia, mejor medido en la derivación II, representa un mayor riesgo de torsades-de-pointes, una taquiarritmia ventricular polimórfica. Además, el bloqueo de la rama derecha del haz con inversiones de la onda T gigante (profundidad de la onda T> 10 mm) en las derivaciones precordiales V2- 4 sugiere hipertensión pulmonar. Después de la inducción, el ritmo cambia abruptamente a torsades-de-pointes ( Imagen B ), lo que requiere desfibrilación.

Bradicardia sinusal inducida por corticoesteroides en un niño con insuficiencia suprarrenal y septicemia / Corticosteroid-induced sinus bradycardia in a young boy with adrenal insufficiency and sepsis

La bibliografía no incluye frecuentemente alteraciones en el ritmo cardíaco de los pacientes que reciben corticoesteroides; se desconoce su mecanismo exacto. En este artículo, presentamos el caso de un paciente con bradicardia sinusal asociada con una dosis de estrés de corticoesteroides. Se ingresó a un niño de 9 años con antecedentes de panhipopituitarismo con gastroenteritis y neumonía y presentó choque septicémico el día de la hospitalización. El tratamiento con líquidos intravenosos, dosis de estrés de hidrocortisona y antibióticos permitió la recuperación. Sin embargo, luego se documentó bradicardia sinusal con una frecuencia cardíaca de 45 latidos por minuto. Esta se resolvió después de reducir gradualmente la hidrocortisona. La bradicardia sinusal inducida por corticoesteroides es un efecto adverso que suele resolverse tras interrumpir el tratamiento. Se debe considerar el monitoreo hemodinámico en estos casos. Este es el primer informe de bradicardia sinusal posterior al uso de hidrocortisona en niños con insuficiencia suprarrenal

The literature does not commonly describe cardiac rhythm disturbances, including bradycardia, in patients who are receiving corticosteroids, and the exact mechanism of such disturbances remains unknown. Herein, we present a case of sinus bradycardia associated with stress-dose corticosteroid therapy. A nine-year-old boy with a history of panhypopituitarism was admitted with gastroenteritis and pneumonia and developed septic shock on the day of admission. Management using intravenous fluids, stress doses of hydrocortisone, and antibiotics resulted in full recovery. However, within 24 hours following treatment, sinus bradycardia was documented, with a heart rate of 45 beats per minute (BPM). The bradycardia resolved after the dose of hydrocortisone was decreased gradually. Corticosteroidinduced sinus bradycardia is an adverse effect that usually resolves after corticosteroid treatment is discontinued. During stress-dose corticosteroid therapy, hemodynamic monitoring should be considered. To our knowledge, this is the first report of sinus bradycardia following the use of hydrocortisone in children who have adrenal insufficiency.

Idioventricular rhythm and shock after a honeybee sting / Ritmo idioventricular y shock después de un piquete de abeja

Abstract Objective: The objective of this study was to describe the case of a 19-year-old male presenting with bradycardia and hypotension after a honeybee sting making a review of the literature and pathophysiology of the cardiovascular and electrocardiogram (EKG) changes after a bee sting. Methods: The patient's airway was inspected and secured. Electrocardiogram with an idioventricular rhythm at 41' bpm. Oxygen was administered, an intravenous access was established, and the transcutaneous pacemaker leads were placed on the chest of the patient, then published guidelines management was induced. Results: The EKG showed idioventricular rhythm at a rate of 41 beats/min that resolved to a normal sinus rhythm after treatment. Conclusions: A full and prompt cardiovascular evaluation should be performed in all patients presenting to the emergency department after a bee sting, and published guidelines regarding the management of bradycardia and anaphylaxis should be followed to achieve successful outcomes.

Resumen Objetivo: Describir el caso de un paciente masculino de 19 años que presenta bradicardia e hipotensión después de una picadura de abeja haciendo una revisión de la literatura y fisiopatología de los cambios cardiovasculares y electrocardiográficos después de una picadura de abeja. Métodos: Se inspeccionó y aseguró la vía aérea del paciente. Un rastreo de ECG realizado al ingreso reveló ritmo idioventricular a una ritmo de 41 latidos por minuto. Se administró oxígeno, se estableció un acceso IV y se colocaron los cables del marcapasos transcutáneo en el tórax del paciente, luego se indujo el manejo de las guías publicadas. Resultados: El electrocardiograma mostró un ritmo idioventricular a una frecuencia de 41 latidos por minuto que se resolvió a un ritmo sinusal normal después del tratamiento. Conclusiones: Se debe realizar una evaluación cardiovascular completa y rápida en todos los pacientes que se presentan al departamento de emergencias después de una picadura de abeja, y se deben seguir las pautas publicadas sobre el manejo de la bradicardia y la anafilaxia para lograr resultados exitosos.

Systematic review and Meta-analysis of efficacy and safety of Yangxin Dingji Capsules in treatment of arrhythmia / 中国中药杂志

To systematically review the efficacy and safety of Yangxin Dingji Capsules in the treatment of arrhythmia. PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, CBM and Wanfang databases were electronically retrieved to collect randomized controlled trial(RCT) on the efficacy of Yangxin Dingji Capsules in the treatment of arrhythmia from the time of database establishment to October 20 th, 2020. Two reviewers independently screened out the literatures, input the data, and evaluated the literature quality of the included studies. RevMan 5.3 software was used for Meta-analysis. A total of 127 studies were retrieved, and 15 articles were included after screening, involving 1 371 cases, with 685 cases in the treatment group and 686 cases in the control group. Yangxin Dingji Capsules combined with anti-arrhythmia western medicine was adopted for intervention in the treatment group, while the patients in the control group were treated with the anti-arrhythmia western medicine alone. Meta-analysis results showed that in arrhythmia patients, the combination of Yangxin Dingji Capsules and conventional western medicine significantly increased the clinical efficacy(RR=1.23, 95%CI[1.17, 1.30], P<0.000 01)and left ventricular ejection fraction(MD=4.31, 95%CI[3.10, 5.52], P<0.000 01), reduced heart rate(MD=-3.79, 95%CI[-7.42,-0.15], P=0.04), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter(MD=-7.06, 95%CI[-11.91,-2.21],P=0.004), left ventricular end-systolic diameter(MD=-4.78, 95%CI[-6.63,-2.93],P<0.000 01), N-terminal B-type natriuretic peptide precursor(MD=-200.51, 95%CI[-254.52,-146.51], P<0.000 01)and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein(MD=-1.74, 95%CI[-3.23,-0.24], P=0.02), all with statistically significant differences. Compared with the control group, Yangxin Dingji Capsules had fewer adverse reactions(RR=0.53, 95%CI[0.36, 0.79], P=0.002). The existing evidences showed that Yangxin Dingji Capsules had certain effect in the treatment of arrhythmia, with a safety. However, due to the limitation in sample size, outcome measures and quality of the included studies, more high-quality studies are required to verify the above conclusion.

Systematic review and Meta-analysis of efficacy and safety of Ningxinbao Capsules in treatment of arrhythmia / 中国中药杂志

To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ningxinbao Capsules in treatment of arrhythmia by Meta-analysis. Randomized controlled trial(RCT) or quasi-randomized control trial(Quasi-RCT) on Ningxinbao Capsules treating arrhythmia were obtained by computer-based retrieval in CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, SinoMed, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and EMbase as well as manual retrieval, with time limit from database establishment to April 7, 2020. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria of trials, all RCTs were screened and evaluated. Then the effective data were collected and RevMan 5.3 Meta-analysis software was used for analysis. Thirteen trials were included, involving 1 379 patients in total. Ningxinbao Capsules combined with anti-arrhythmia Western medicine were adopted as the intervention, and the patients in control group were treated with the anti-arrhythmia Western medicine alone. Meta-analysis results showed that as compared to control group, Ningxinbao Capsules combined with anti-arrhythmia Western medicine group was superior in clinical efficacy, dynamic electrocardiogram and average heart rate in patients with bradycardia, with indicated statistically significant differences. Ningxinbao Capsules had fewer adverse reactions and could relieve the toxic and side effects of anti-arrhythmia medicine possibly. The study showed that Ningxinbao Capsules played a role in treatment of arrhythmia and was relatively safe. However, due to the limited quality of the included studies, high-quality clinical trials are needed to verify the conclusions.

Hypotension and bradycardia produced by transthoracic application of low-intensity ultrasound therapy in hearts of healthy rats - a preclinical study

Abstract Objective: To investigate the cardiovascular effects produced by transthoracic application of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound therapy (LIPUST). Methods: Three-month-old male Wistar rats (± 300 g, N=16) were randomly allocated in two groups, namely SHAM (control group, faked procedures) and UST (animals treated with LIPUST). These animals, under anesthesia, were instrumented (femoral artery and vein catheterization) for hemodynamic recordings (mean blood pressure [MBP], heart rate [HR]) and blood biochemical profile (lipids, creatine kinase-myocardial band [CK-MB]). Then, LIPUST (spatial average-temporal average [ISATA] 1-MHz, power 0.1 to 1.2 W/cm2, pulsed 2:8 ms, cycle at 30%, for three minutes) was applied to animals from the UST group, externally to their thorax. SHAM animals were equally manipulated, but without application of ultrasound energy. After the hemodynamic and biochemical measurements, animals were sacrificed, and their hearts were mounted in a Langendorff apparatus for coronary reactivity evaluation. Standard histology techniques were employed to analyze the hearts. Results: LIPUST application caused statistically significant reductions in MBP (92±4 vs. 106±1 mmHg) and HR (345±14 vs. 380±17 rpm) when compared with SHAM procedures. UST rats exhibited higher CK-MB levels (318±55 vs. 198±26 U/dL) and lower plasma triglycerides levels (38±7 vs. 70±10 mg/dL) than SHAM animals. Coronary reactivity was not significantly changed by LIPUST. Cardiac histopathology showed an increase in capillary permeability in treated animals when compared with SHAM animals. Conclusion: Noninvasive LIPUST induces significant metabolic and hemodynamic changes, including intensity-dependent bradycardia and hypotension, indicating a possible therapeutic effect for cardiac events.

Implante de marcapasos transitorio en una terapia intensiva municipal / Implantation of temporary pacemaker in a municipal intensive care unit

Introducción: Las bradi-arritmias son cardiopatías graves que ocasionan trastornos hemodinámicos severos; llevar al paciente a un gasto cardiaco normal puede implicar que se implante un marcapasos. Objetivo: Describir algunos aspectos clínicos y epidemiológicos de pacientes que recibieron la técnica de implantar un marcapasos. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal, con 36 pacientes que necesitaron marcapasos transitorio, ingresados en la unidad de cuidados intensivos del Hospital General Docente "Orlando Pantoja Tamayo" de Contramaestre, en el período desde octubre de 2015 hasta mayo de 2019. Las variables utilizadas fueron: grupo de edades y sexo, causas de arritmias y antecedentes patológicos personales, medicamentos más usados previos al ingreso, tiempo de uso del marcapasos transitorio y necesidad de implantación del permanente. Resultados: Predominó el sexo masculino y edades de 80 y más años, el trastorno de la conducción auriculoventricular más frecuente fue el bloqueo auriculoventricular de tercer grado; el tiempo promedio de uso de marcapaso transitorio fue entre 2 y 6 días. Conclusiones: La implantación precoz en esta entidad municipal mejoró notablemente la supervivencia de los pacientes(AU)

Introduction: Bradyarrhythmias are serious heart diseases that cause severe hemodynamic disorders. Bringing the patient to normal cardiac output may imply that a pacemaker be implanted. Objective: To describe some clinical and epidemiological aspects of patients who received the technique of implanting a pacemaker. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out with 36 patients who needed a temporary pacemaker, admitted to the intensive care unit of Orlando Pantoja Tamayo General Teaching Hospital in Contramaestrem, in the period from October 2015 to May 2019. The variables used were age group and sex, causes of arrhythmias, and personal pathological history, most used medications prior to admission, time of usage of the temporary pacemaker, and the need for permanent implantation. Results: The male sex and ages 80 and older predominated, the most frequent atrioventricular conduction disorder was the third-degree atrioventricular block. The average time of temporary pacemaker usage was between two and six days. Conclusions: Early implantation in this municipal institution significantly improved patient survival(AU)