Recurrent asystole resulting from high cervical spinal cord injuries

Am Surg. 2006 Jun;72(6):525-9.

Abstract

Cervical spinal cord injury is a highly morbid condition frequently associated with cardiovascular instability. This instability may include bradyarrhythmias, as well as hypotension, and usually resolves in a relatively short time. However, over a 3-year period (January 2003-December, 2005), 5 of 30 patients with complete cervical spinal cord injuries seen at our Level I trauma center required placement of permanent cardiac pacemakers for recurrent bradycardia/asystolic events. Strong consideration for pacemaker placement should be given for those spinal cord-injured patients with symptomatic bradyarrhythmic events still occurring 2 weeks after injury.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Bradycardia / etiology*
  • Bradycardia / prevention & control*
  • Cervical Vertebrae
  • Female
  • Heart Arrest / etiology*
  • Heart Arrest / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pacemaker, Artificial*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Secondary Prevention
  • Spinal Cord Injuries / complications*
  • Trauma Centers
  • Treatment Outcome