Percutaneous stellate ganglion block suppressing VT and VF in a patient refractory to VT ablation

J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. 2013 Aug;24(8):926-8. doi: 10.1111/jce.12138. Epub 2013 Apr 9.

Abstract

Introduction: Electrical storm is a condition characterized by multiple episodes of ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) in a short period of time.

Case presentation: An 80-year-old male with a history of ischemic cardiomyopathy presented with multiple ICD shocks. As a last resort, he underwent percutaneous left, followed by right, stellate ganglion block under fluoroscopic guidance. Since his discharge, he has been managed with alternating, biweekly left and right stellate ganglion blocks, and he has received no ICD shocks.

Discussion: This case illustrates the potential of ongoing, temporary percutaneous stellate ganglion blockade in suppressing ventricular arrhythmogenesis.

Keywords: VT storm; autonomic nervous system; implantable cardioverter defibrillator; stellate ganglion block; ventricular tachycardia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Defibrillators, Implantable
  • Fluoroscopy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nerve Block / methods*
  • Stellate Ganglion / physiopathology*
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / physiopathology*
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / prevention & control*
  • Ventricular Fibrillation / physiopathology*
  • Ventricular Fibrillation / prevention & control*