• Journal of The Korean Dental Society of Anesthesiology
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• v.12 no.3
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• pp.151-155
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• 2012

A vasovagal reaction is defined as the 'development of hypotension and bradycardia associated with the typical clinical manifestations of pallor, sweating and weakness'. The most profound degree of vasovagal reaction results in fainting or syncope. Incidence of vasovagal reactions in the local anesthetic department of a dental hospital is around 2%. The pathophysiology of the hypotension/bradycardia reflex responsible for vasovagal syncope is not completely understood. Central as well as peripheral mechanisms have been implicated in its pathogenesis: however their relative contribution is not fully elucidated. Recently, trigeminocardiac reflex, previously known as oculocardiac reflex, may serve as syncope. The management of vasovagal syncope is evolving. Non-pharmacological treatment options are a fundamental first step of all treatment pathways. In this article, we would like to review new mechanism of vasovagal syncope and hope to be of help to manage the syncopal patients.

• Journal of Dental Anesthesia and Pain Medicine
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• v.22 no.1
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• pp.61-65
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• 2022

Trigeminocardiac reflex (TCR) is a well-known brainstem reflex that manifests as hypotension, bradycardia, dysrhythmia, and asystole when stimulation is applied to a branch of the trigeminal nerve. Most commonly associated with ophthalmic, orbital, and neurologic surgeries, mandibular division and oral cavity variants occur far less frequently. Here, we describe a case of asystolic TCR elicited by lingual nerve stimulation. This case highlights the role of specific anesthetic medications in modulating this phenomenon and reinforces the need for early recognition and clear communication in case of its occurrence. Anesthesia providers must consider discontinuing or avoiding certain medications when clinically appropriate, even during low TCR-risk procedures.

• Journal of Veterinary Clinics
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• v.33 no.4
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• pp.234-236
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• 2016

A 14 kg, 9-year-old, spayed female, Cocker Spaniel was presented to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of Seoul National University with a history of head tilt and circling. Otitis externa and media were diagnosed by computerized tomography, and total ear canal ablation was performed. In preanesthetic evaluation, systemic hypertension and second-degree atrioventricular block were observed, but there was no regurgitation through the heart valves. Systemic hypertension was managed with amlodipine (0.1 mg/kg, PO, BID) for the anesthesia. The dog was premedicated with cefazolin (22 mg/kg, IV) and midazolam (0.2 mg/kg, IV). Anesthesia was induced with alfaxalone (2 mg/kg, IV) and maintained with isoflurane and 100% oxygen following intubation. During surgery, vital signs (heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, end tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure and body temperature) were maintained within normal ranges, but bradycardia was observed and corrected with glycopyrrolate (5 ug/kg IV, twice). During subcuticular suture, electrohemostasis was applied at the incision line, which was close to the trigeminal nerve. In no time at all, heart rate dramatically decreased from 110 to 60 beats per minute. No additional treatment was done because mean blood pressure was maintained above 70 mmHg. The heart rate recovered according to the decrease of end tidal isoflurane concentration and there were no complications associated with the anesthesia and surgery. Sudden bradycardia after electrical stimulation around the trigeminal nerve was considered as trigeminocardiac reflex (TCR). It is recommended to be careful of bradycardia from TCR when electrocautery is used in the craniofacial area during surgery.