Spontaneous torsade de pointes and ventricular fibrillation in a dog during pacemaker implantation

J Vet Cardiol. 2020 Dec:32:60-65. doi: 10.1016/j.jvc.2020.09.009. Epub 2020 Oct 7.

Abstract

Torsade de pointes is an unusual complication seen in dogs during pacemaker implantation, although ventricular fibrillation has been previously reported. This case report describes torsade de pointes in a dog during pacemaker implantation that degenerated into ventricular fibrillation and discusses the possible contributory factors. It also illustrates the relevance of a pre-emptive resuscitation plan and how this might have affected the outcome in the patient.

Keywords: Anaesthesia; Arrhythmia; Canine; Defibrillation; Third-degree atrioventricular block.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Dog Diseases / therapy*
  • Dogs
  • Electrocardiography / veterinary
  • Female
  • Pacemaker, Artificial / adverse effects
  • Pacemaker, Artificial / veterinary*
  • Torsades de Pointes / diagnosis
  • Torsades de Pointes / etiology
  • Torsades de Pointes / veterinary*
  • Ventricular Fibrillation / diagnosis
  • Ventricular Fibrillation / etiology
  • Ventricular Fibrillation / veterinary*