The Heart Rhythm Society (HRS)/American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Expert Consensus Statement on the Perioperative Management of Patients with Implantable Defibrillators, Pacemakers and Arrhythmia Monitors: Facilities and Patient Management

Perioperative management of patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices

The use of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) has increased significantly in recent years. Consequently, more patients with CIEDs will undergo surgery during their lifetime, and thus the involvement of anesthesiologists in the perioperative management of CIEDs is increasing. With ongoing advancements in technology, many types of CIEDs have been developed, including permanent pacemakers, leadless pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, cardiac resynchronization therapy-pacemakers/defibrillators, and implantable loop recorders. The functioning of CIEDs exposed to an electromagnetic field can be affected by electromagnetic interference, potential sources of which can be found in the operating room. Thus, to prevent potential adverse events caused by electromagnetic interference in the operating room, anesthesiologists must have knowledge of CIEDs and be able to identify each type. This review focuses on the perioperative management of patients with CIEDs, including indications for CIED implantation to determine the baseline cardiovascular status of patients; concerns associated with CIEDs before and during surgery; perioperative management of CIEDs, including magnet application and device reprogramming; and additional perioperative provisions for patients with CIEDs. As issues such as variations in programming capabilities and responses to magnet application according to device can be challenging, this review provides essential information for the safe perioperative management of patients with CIEDs.

Safety of catheter ablation in patients with recently implanted cardiac implantable electronic device: A 5-year experience

INTRODUCTION

Catheter ablation (CA) can interfere with cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) function. The safety of CA in the 1st year after CIED implantation/lead revision is uncertain.

METHODS

This single center, retrospective cohort included patients who underwent CA between 2012 and 2017 and had a CIED implant/lead revision within the preceding year. We assessed the frequency of device/lead malfunctions in this population.

RESULTS

We identified 1810 CAs in patients between 2012 and 2017, with 170 CAs in 163 patients within a year of a CIED implant/lead revision. Mean age 68 ± 12 years (68% men). Time between the CIED procedure and CA was 158 ± 99 days. The CA procedures included AF ablation (n = 57, 34%), AV node ablation (n = 40, 24%), SVT ablation (n = 37, 22%), and PVC/VT ablations (n = 36, 21%). The cumulative frequency of lead dislodgement, significant CIED dysfunction, and/or CIED-related infection following CA was (n = 1/170, 0.6%). There was a single atrial lead dislodgement (0.6%). There were no instances of power-on-reset or CIED-related infection. Following CA, there was no significant difference in RA or RV lead sensing (p = 0.52 and 0.84 respectively) or thresholds (p = 0.94 and 0.17 respectively). The RA impedance slightly decreased post-CA from 474 ± 80 Ohms to 460 ± 73 Ohms (p = 0.002), as did the RV impedance (from 515 ± 111 Ohms to 497 ± 98 Ohms, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

CA can be performed within 1 year following CIED implantation/lead revision with a low risk of CIED/lead malfunction or lead dislodgement. The ideal time to perform CA after a CIED remains uncertain.

Capturing Original Preanesthetic Comprehensive History and Physical Assessments with the use of Video Telehealth: A Quality Improvement Project for Student Nurse Anesthetists

PURPOSE

Beginning January 1, 2022, the Council on Accreditation is requiring student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) matriculating into nurse anesthesia programs to track preanesthetic comprehensive history and physical (H&P) assessment completion numbers. This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to create a new clinical rotation for SRNAs to practice their preanesthetic H&P assessment skills through video telehealth.

DESIGN

A quality improvement project.

METHODS

Likert-style and free-text surveys were administered to both the SRNA students and the expert provider to assess for improvements, viability, and effectiveness of the clinical rotation. SRNAs used a curated library of evidence-based resources and instructions for conducting their assessments. Expert guidance was provided through a single experienced provider.

FINDINGS

Eight SRNAs performed one preanesthetic telehealth H&P assessment and four of the eight performed a second assessment. Pre-QI surveys indicated 75% were not comfortable with their ability in performing a competent assessment. Initial post-QI surveys indicated 88% were more comfortable with their abilities and 100% of those who completed a second-time post-QI survey 100% were more comfortable. Provider feedback indicated full-day clinical rotations were feasible and important.

CONCLUSIONS

Results revealed SRNAs desire and need for more preanesthetic comprehensive H&P appointments. Expansion into full-scale, full-day, and in-person assessments was also indicated. QI projects at other clinical sites can determine if similar rotations can also create similar clinical rotations.

Perioperative Considerations for Modern Leadless Pacemakers

Since their initial approval by the Food and Drug Administration in 2016, leadless pacemakers have become increasingly prevalent. This growth has been driven by an improved adverse effect profile when compared to traditional pacemakers, including lower rates of infection, as well as eliminated risk of pocket hematoma and lead complications. More recently, technology enabling leadless synchronized atrioventricular pacing in patients with atrioventricular block has vastly expanded the indications for these devices. Anesthesiologists will increasingly be relied upon to safely care for patients with leadless pacemakers undergoing non-electrophysiology procedures and surgery. This article provides an overview of the technology, evidence base, current indications, and unique perioperative considerations for leadless pacemakers.

Fundamental Electrophysiology Principles Related to Perioperative Management of Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Devices

An increasing number of patients undergoing elective or emergency surgery in the United States have a cardiovascular implantable electronic device. Practice advisories and consensus statements have been issued by the American Society of Anesthesiologists and the Heart Rhythm Society, advocating a multidisciplinary approach. Unfortunately, anesthesia providers often find themselves in a situation in which they are left to manage these devices independently. At the University of Washington Medical Center, an anesthesiology-based service to manage these devices has existed for more than a decade. Many problems with devices have been observed, including confusing rhythms, failure of magnets to provide the desired change in device function, and actual device malfunction. With these clinical case examples taken from the authors' collective experience, this article provides an in-depth understanding of some key electrophysiology principles relevant to cardiovascular implantable electronic device function and appropriate perioperative management.

Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion in patients with a cardiac implantable electronic device

BACKGROUND

Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) may be a viable option for stroke prevention in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and a contraindication for oral anticoagulation. No evidence evaluating the safety of this procedure in patients with a cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) exists. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether CIED function is affected by LAAO and to explore LAAO procedural characteristics and complications in patients with a CIED.

METHODS

This single-center cohort study included consecutive patients scheduled for percutaneous LAAO. Patients with a CIED prior to LAAO were selected and compared to the patients without CIED, concerning procedural characteristics and peri-procedural complications. In the group of patients with CIEDs, essential pacemaker integrity parameters were compared before and after the procedure to detect possible micro and macro lead displacements.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients with CIED were scheduled for LAAO (age 73.7 ± 5.4 years, 65% males, CHA2DS2-VASc 4.3 ± 1.5, and HAS-BLED 3.3 ± 1.0). The 245 patients without CIED were younger, and HAS-BLED-score was slightly lower (69.4 ± 8.2 years, p < 0.001; 2.8 ± 1.0, p = 0.022). Patients without CIED more frequently underwent LAAO combined with catheter ablation (p = 0.002). All other procedural characteristics were comparable between both groups. No visible lead displacement was observed on chest X-ray after LAAO. Additionally, no differences in impedance, threshold, or intracardiac sensing in various CIED lead locations were found prior versus post LAAO.

CONCLUSION

This study supports the feasibility and safety of LAAO in patients with a CIED.

The American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) Guidelines for Radiofrequency Ablative Procedures in Patients with Implanted Devices

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a treatment modality used in interventional pain management to treat several conditions including chronic neck or back pain, sacroiliac joint pain, major joint pain, and pain from sites that can be isolated to a sensory nerve amenable to RFA. The goals of such procedures are to reduce pain, improve function, delay need for surgical intervention, and reduce pain medication consumption. As applications for RFA expand through novel techniques and nerve targets, there is concern with how RFA may impact patients with implanted medical devices. Specifically, the electrical currents used in RFA produce electromagnetic interference, which can result in unintentional energy transfer to implanted devices. This may also interfere with device function or cause damage to the device itself. As the number of patients with implanted devices increases, it is imperative to establish guidelines for the management of implanted devices during RFA procedures. This review aims to establish guidelines to assist physicians in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative management of implanted devices in patients undergoing procedures using radiofrequency energy. Here, we provide physicians with background knowledge and a summary of current evidence to allow safe utilization of RFA treatment in patients with implanted devices such as cardiac implantable electronic devices, spinal cord stimulators, intrathecal pumps, and deep brain stimulators. While these guidelines are intended to be comprehensive, each patient should be assessed on an individual basis to optimize outcomes.

Management of Pancreatic Duct Stones: Extracorporeal Approach

Stone clearance with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is a safe and effective procedure for large pancreatic calculi not extractable by the standard endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography techniques. In properly selected patients, this minimally invasive approach should be offered as the first line of therapy instead of surgery. Complete stone clearance can be achieved in three-fourths with long-term pain relief in two-thirds of patients. Re-intervention is required in less than half of the patients. Future studies should compare the extracorporeal approach with intraductal lithotripsy using the pancreatoscope.

Cardio-Obstetrics and Heart Failure: JACC: Heart Failure State-of-the-Art Review

Heart failure and cardiomyopathy are significant contributors to pregnancy-related deaths, as maternal morbidity and mortality have been increasing over time. In this setting, the role of the multidisciplinary cardio-obstetrics team is crucial to optimizing maternal, obstetrical and fetal outcomes. Although peripartum cardiomyopathy is the most common cardiomyopathy experienced by pregnant individuals, the hemodynamic changes of pregnancy may unmask a pre-existing cardiomyopathy leading to clinical decompensation. Additionally, there are unique management considerations for women with pre-existing cardiomyopathy as well as for those women with advanced heart failure who may be on left ventricular assist device support or have undergone heart transplantation. The purpose of this review is to discuss: 1) preconception counseling; 2) risk stratification and management strategies for pregnant women extending to the postpartum "fourth trimester" with pre-existing heart failure or "pre-heart failure;" 3) the safety of heart failure medications during pregnancy and lactation; and 4) management of pregnancy for women on left ventricular assist device support or after heart transplantation.

Patient selection in ambulatory surgery

Patient selection is important for ambulatory surgical practices. Proper patient selection for ambulatory practices will optimize resources and lead to increased patient and provider satisfaction. As the number and complexity of procedures in ambulatory surgical centers increase, it is important to ensure that patients are best cared for in facilities that can provide appropriate levels of care. This review addresses the multiple variables and resources that should be considered when selecting patients for anesthesia in ambulatory centers and offices.

Risk of occurrence of electromagnetic interference from the application of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on the sensing function of implantable defibrillators

BACKGROUND

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is an established method for pain relief. But electrical TENS currents are also a source of electromagnetic interference (EMI). Thus, TENS is considered to be contraindicated in implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) patients. However, data might be outdated due to considerable advances in ICD and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) filtering and noise protection algorithm technologies. The aim of this pilot safety study was to re-evaluate the safety of TENS in patients with modern ICDs.

METHODS AND RESULTS

One hundred and seven patients equipped with 55 different models of ICD/CRT with defibrillators from 4 manufacturers underwent a standardized test protocol including TENS at the cervical spine and the thorax, at 2 stimulation modes-high-frequency TENS (80 Hz) and burst-mode TENS (2 Hz). Potential interference monitoring included continuous documentation of ECG Lead II, intracardiac electrograms and the marker channel. Electromagnetic interference was detected in 17 of 107 patients (15.9%). Most frequent were: interpretations as a premature ventricular beats (VS/S) in 15 patients (14%), noise reversion in 5 (4.6%) which resulted in temporary asynchronous pacing in 3 (2.8%), interpretation as ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation in 2 (1.9%), and premature atrial beat in 2 (1.9%) patients. Electromagnetic interference occurrence was influenced by position (chest, P < 0.01), higher current intensity (P < 0.01), and manufacturer (P = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Overall, only intermittent and minor EMI were detected. Prior to the use of TENS in patients with ICDs, they should undergo testing under the supervision of a cardiac device specialist.

The Year in Electrophysiology: Selected Highlights From 2022

This special article is the fifth in an annual series for the Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia. The authors would like to thank the Editor-in-Chief, Dr Kaplan, the Associate Editor-in-Chief, Dr Augoustides, and the editorial board for the opportunity to author this series, which summarizes the key research papers in the electrophysiology (EP) field relevant to cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesiologists. These articles are shaping perioperative EP procedures and practices, such as pulsed-field ablation, cryoablation for first-line treatment for atrial fibrillation, advancements in conduction system pacing, safety issues related to smartphones and cardiac implantable electronic devices, and alterations in EP workflow as the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic. Special emphasis is placed on the implications of these advancements for the anesthetic care of patients undergoing EP procedures.

Perioperative Management of Nonorthopaedic Devices in the Pediatric Neuromuscular Patient Population

Pediatric patients with neuromuscular conditions often have nonorthopaedic implants that can pose a challenge for MRI acquisition and surgical planning. Treating physicians often find themselves in the position of navigating between seemingly overly risk-averse manufacturer's guidelines and an individual patient's benefits of an MRI or surgery. Most nonorthopaedic implants are compatible with MRI under specific conditions, though often require reprogramming or interrogation before and/or after the scan. For surgical procedures, the use of electrosurgical instrumentation poses a risk of electromagnetic interference and implants are thus often programmed or turned off for the procedures. Special considerations are needed for these patients to prevent device damage or malfunction, which can pose additional risk to the patient. Additional planning before surgery is necessary to ensure appropriate equipment, and staff are available to ensure patient safety.

Implantable Electronic Cardiovascular Device Complications Related to Electrocautery During Ophthalmology Surgery: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

Implantable electronic cardiovascular device such as cardiac pacemakers and implantable defibrillators are common life-saving devices. Device-related complications can arise when undergoing surgical interventions with electrosurgical tools due to electromagnetic interference, based on electrocautery type, implantable electronic cardiovascular device type, electrocautery location, and a number of other factors. The risk of device-related complications due to electrocautery in oculoplastic surgery has not been established. This systematic literature review assesses prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes of electrocautery-related device complications in oculoplastic surgery.

METHODS

Systematic literature review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-Analysis guidelines and used the search terms "pacemaker," "implantable cardioverter defibrillator," "electrocautery," "cautery," and "electrosurgery" through June 2022. Inclusion criteria were full-text articles, discussing ocular, oculoplastic, or other facial surgery. Exclusion criteria were non-English language or surgery focused on other parts of the body. Full-text manuscripts of identified articles were reviewed and relevant data were extracted.

RESULTS

Twelve studies met inclusion criteria. Two studies were level I and II evidence, while 10 studies were level III or IV. There were no reports of electromagnetic interference with bipolar cautery use. With monopolar cautery use, cases of electromagnetic interference were reported, but without related significant morbidity or mortality. Safety recommendations to minimize electrical flow through the implantable electronic cardiovascular device are described.

CONCLUSIONS

There were no reports of implantable electronic cardiovascular device-related complications from bipolar or thermocautery use in ophthalmic or oculoplastic surgeries. Monopolar have been associated with electromagnetic interference, but additional preoperative and perioperative measures can be taken to mitigate this risk.

Understanding the Principles of Electrosurgery for Endoscopic Surgery and Third Space Endoscopy

Electrosurgery is the application of high-frequency electrical alternating current to biologic tissue to cut, coagulate, desiccate, and/or fulgurate. Electrosurgery is commonly used in gastrointestinal endoscopy, with applications including biliary sphincterotomy, polypectomy, hemostasis, the ablation of lesions, and endoscopic surgery. Understanding electrosurgical principles is important in endoscopic surgery to achieve the desired therapeutic effect, optimize procedural outcomes, and minimize risks or adverse events. This article describes fundamental principles that apply to electrosurgical units, operator technique, and practical considerations for achieving desired tissue effects in endoscopic surgery; and provides practical guidance and safety considerations when using electrosurgical units in endoscopic surgery.

Complications of catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia

With the increasing literature demonstrating benefits of catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia (VT), the number of patients undergoing VT ablation has increased dramatically. As VT ablation is being performed more routinely, operators must be aware of potential complications of VT ablation. This review delves deeper into the practice of VT ablation with a focus on periprocedural complications.

Inadvertent Intraoperative Defibrillation Secondary to Electrocautery Grounding Pad Placement

Intraoperative defibrillation secondary to the usage of electrocautery in a patient with a cardiovascular implantable electronic device is a rare occurrence, and below-the-umbilicus electrocautery use causing inadvertent defibrillation is a near-zero risk. Defibrillation secondary to electrodispersive pad (EDP) radiofrequency dispersion has only ever been theorized. In this report, we describe the case of a 67-year-old male with an automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (AICD) undergoing a robotic-assisted left anterior total hip arthroplasty for left hip osteoarthritis who experienced inadvertent intraoperative defibrillation concurrent with electrocautery usage. The defibrillations ceased following contralateral EDP repositioning and application of a donut magnet overlying the patient's AICD.

Pancreatic Stones and Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy: A Review of the Literature

ABSTRACT

Pancreatic stones are sequelae of chronic pancreatitis, resulting in poor quality of life, frequent hospitalizations, and a significant economic burden. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) can be used to treat pancreatic stones and is less invasive when compared to other modalities. In this review article, we have discussed the role of ESWL in the treatment of pancreatic stones and how it differs from other modalities. Databases were searched electronically for articles discussing the treatment of pancreatic ductal stones by ESWL or other modalities. Articles discussing or comparing treatment success rates were preferentially included. An inductive approach was used to identify articles related to the treatment of pancreatic stones with ESWL throughout the review process. Although laser lithotripsy and electrohydraulic lithotripsy appear to have higher success rates, the potential for ESWL to affect clinical outcomes is substantial, especially in individuals with a higher risk for invasive procedures. The decision to perform ESWL should be considered if the outcome will substantially alter the clinical management when performed by an experienced endoscopist. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to compare ESWL and peroral pancreatic lithotripsy methods.

Management of patients with the Intravascular Ventricular Assist System (iVAS) for non-cardiac surgery

Intravascular ventricular assist system (iVAS) is an investigative device in clinical trials for the management of advanced heart failure. It works on the principle of counterpulsation, similar to the classic intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation (IABP). We present a case of a 66-year-old man with iVAS in situ who required emergency laparotomy for a strangulated umbilical hernia. Patients with mechanical circulatory devices (MCD) are presenting more frequently for emergency and even elective noncardiac operations. Managing such patients poses significant challenges to the perioperative team due to its novelty and paucity of management recommendations.

Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ) Position Statement on the Follow-Up of Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Devices 2022

Recognising the need for a national approach for the recommended best practice for the follow-up of implanted cardiac rhythm devices to ensure patient safety, this document has been produced by the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ). It draws on accepted practice standards and guidelines of international electrophysiology bodies. It lays out methodology, frequency, and content of follow-up, including remote monitoring; personnel, including physician, allied health, nursing and industry; paediatric and adult congenital heart patients; and special considerations including magnetic resonance imaging scanning, perioperative management, and hazard alerts.

Safety and Efficacy of Magnet Use to Temporarily Inhibit Inappropriate Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapy in Emergency Situations: A Case Report

Introduction: The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) represents a major advancement in ICD technology. Inappropriate shocks (IAS) occur in more than 3.1% of the population with S-ICD each year and are usually followed by admission to the emergency department (ED). In this setting, the disabling of IAS is mandatory during a pseudo-electrical storm (ES). This report describes the strategies that can be followed in order to temporarily inhibit IAS in critical care settings with the use of magnets.

Case presentation: An S-ICD was implanted more than 6 weeks prior to presentation in a 68-year-old man with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. In the ED, the patient experienced 3 IAS in the last hour. A Medtronic magnet was applied to stop IAS, as the specific programmer was not available. The maneuver interrupted the IAS. In order to verify the universal magnetic response of the S-ICD, six different magnets and one smartphone with MagSafe technology were tested. All magnet models suspended arrhythmia detection and IAS, while the smartphone did not cause magnet interferences.

Conclusions: This report demonstrates the safety and efficacy of all clinical magnet models in inhibiting IAS. In case of pseudo-ES, any type of magnet allows ED providers to easily and rapidly disable the functionality of the devices when appropriate.

In-vitro investigation of cardiac implantable electronic device malfunction during and after direct photon exposure: A three-centres experience

PURPOSE

Radiotherapy may cause malfunction of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) and pacemakers (PMs). We carried-out a multicentre randomized in-vitro study on 65 ICDs and 145 PMs to evaluate malfunctions during and after direct irradiation to doses up to 10 Gy.

METHODS

Three centres equipped with different linear accelerator and treatment-planning systems participated in the study. Computed Tomography (CT) acquisitions were performed to build the treatment plans. All devices were exposed to dose of 2, 5, or 10 Gy (6 MV). All devices underwent a baseline examination and 64 wireless real-time telemetry-transmissions (47 ICDs and 17 PMs) were monitored during photon exposures. All devices were interrogated after exposure and once monthly for six subsequent months.

RESULTS

Fifty-four of the 64 wireless-enabled CIEDs (84.4%) recorded noise-related interferences during exposure. In detail, 40/47 ICDs (85.1%) reported interference, of which 16 ICDs (34%) reported potentially clinically relevant pacing inhibition and inappropriate detections. Following exposure, a soft reset occurred in 1/145 PM (0.7%) while 7/145 PMs (4.8%) reported battery issues. During the six-month follow-up, 1/145 PM (0.7%) reported a soft reset, while 12/145 more PMs (8.3%) and 1/64 ICD (1.5%) showed abnormal battery depletion. All reported issues occurred independently of exposure dose. Finally, irreversible effects on software and battery life occurred in only non-MRI-compatible devices.

CONCLUSION

ICDs mostly featured real-time transient sensing issues, while PMs mostly experienced long-term battery or software issues that were observed immediately following radiation exposure and during follow-up. Irreversible effects on battery life and software occurred in only non-MRI-compatible devices.

Perioperative Management of Patients with Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices and Utility of Magnet Application

With the demographic evolution of the population, patients undergoing surgery today are older and have an increasing number of sometimes complex comorbidities. Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) are also getting more and more complex with very sophisticated programming algorithms. It may be generally assumed that magnet application reverts pacing to an asynchronous mode in pacemakers and disables tachycardia detection/therapy in internal cardioverter-defibrillators. However, depending on device type, manufacturer and model, the response to magnet application may differ substantially. For these reasons, perioperative management of CIED patients is getting more and more challenging. With this review article we provide an overview of optimal perioperative management of CIED patients with a detailed description of CIED response to magnet application depending on manufacturer and device-type, which may help in providing a safe perioperative management plan for the CIED patient.

Patient Selection for Adult Ambulatory Surgery: A Narrative Review

With migration of medically complex patients undergoing more extensive surgical procedures to the ambulatory setting, selecting the appropriate patient is vital. Patient selection can impact patient safety, efficiency, and reportable outcomes at ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). Identifying suitability for ambulatory surgery is a dynamic process that depends on a complex interplay between the surgical procedure, patient characteristics, and the expected anesthetic technique (eg, sedation/analgesia, local/regional anesthesia, or general anesthesia). In addition, the type of ambulatory setting (ie, short-stay facilities, hospital-based ambulatory center, freestanding ambulatory center, and office-based surgery) and social factors, such as availability of a responsible individual to take care of the patient at home, can also influence patient selection. The purpose of this review is to present current best evidence that would provide guidance to the ambulatory anesthesiologist in making an informed decision regarding patient selection for surgical procedures in freestanding ambulatory facilities.

Electrosurgery in dermatology

Electrosurgery applies high frequency alternating electrical currents to generate heat, thereby creating tissue damage required for cutting, hemostasis, or destruction. Electrosurgery can be delivered in a variety of different ways and can be tailored to achieve the desired clinical effect. Having a command of the underlying principles of electrosurgery will help dermatologic surgeons use the appropriate form of electrosurgery to safely achieve the desired results. We reviewed basic principles of electrosurgery, described the various techniques and devices, and delineated associated risks of electrosurgery for specific patient populations and providers. All modalities of electrosurgery present a risk of electromagnetic interference, which can negatively affect patients with implanted devices, such as pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, and deep brain stimulators. In particular, electrosurgery may create a smoke plume containing a number of volatile organic compounds potentially noxious; however, the risk of such exposure remains unknown.

Static magnetic field measurements of smart phones and watches and applicability to triggering magnet modes in implantable pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators

BACKGROUND

Implantable pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are designed to include a "magnet mode" feature that can be activated from magnets stronger than 10 G. This feature is designed to be used when a patient is undergoing a procedure where electromagnetic interference is possible, or anytime suspension of tachycardia detection and therapy is needed. A publication in Heart Rhythm demonstrates an iPhone 12 triggering the magnet mode of a Medtronic ICD.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to determine the separation distance between consumer electronic devices that may create magnetic interference, including cell phones and smart watches, and implantable pacemakers and ICDs where magnet mode can be triggered.

METHODS

The static magnetic fields of the iPhone 12 models and Apple Watch were measured at several planes in 1 cm resolution using an FW Bell 5180 Gauss Meter with STD18-0404 Transverse probe (unidirectional probe).

RESULTS

All iPhone 12 and Apple Watch 6 models tested have static magnetic fields significantly greater than 10 G in close proximity (1-11 mm), which attenuates to below 10 G between 11 and 20 mm.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study support the US Food and Drug Administration recommendation that patients keep any consumer electronic devices that may create magnetic interference, including cell phones and smart watches, at least 6 inches away from implanted medical devices, in particular pacemakers and cardiac defibrillators.

Tricuspid Valve Replacement in a Patient with a Leadless Cardiac Pacemaker: Current Guidelines and Recommendations for Perioperative Management

Leadless cardiac pacemakers were developed to reduce complications associated with conventional transvenous pacemakers. While this technology is still relatively new, devices are increasingly being implanted. The perioperative management of patients with these devices has been underreported; we thus seek to add to the limited body of knowledge of perioperative management of patients with leadless cardiac pacemakers. An elderly female patient with a Micra VR transcatheter pacing system leadless cardiac pacemaker placed for tachycardia-bradycardia syndrome with intermittent complete heart block was scheduled for elective tricuspid valve replacement for severe tricuspid regurgitation. Pacemaker interrogation was performed several hours prior to the scheduled surgery based on the electrophysiologist's availability; the device was kept in its programmed VVIR mode, and the base rate was increased from 60 to 80 beats per minute in anticipation of the upcoming surgery. Upon preoperative evaluation, the anesthesiologist asked that the electrophysiology team be placed on standby intraoperatively due to the concern that either oversensing in the setting of pacemaker dependence and/or undesirable tachycardia from rate-responsive pacing could occur. The surgeon used monopolar electrocautery for the duration of the cardiac surgery. Despite the patient having evidence of pacemaker dependence in the intensive care unit preoperatively, no electromagnetic interference leading to oversensing nor rate modulation was detected during intraoperative electrocardiographic and intraarterial invasive monitoring. Evidence-based guidelines regarding perioperative management specifically of leadless cardiac pacemakers do not exist. As these devices become more prevalent, further evaluation will be paramount to determine whether existing guidelines for perioperative management of conventional transvenous pacemakers apply.

Appropriate Delivery of Antitachyarrhythmia Therapy Despite Magnet Placement Over Implanted Cardioverter-Defibrillator: A Case Report

The fundamental perioperative concern for patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) is the potential for electromagnetic interference (EMI) from monopolar electrosurgery. The ICD may interpret electromagnetic signals as a tachyarrhythmia and deliver an inappropriate shock to the patient. Magnet placement is often used to avoid this problem since a magnet will often deactivate an ICD's tachyarrhythmia therapy. We report a case in which magnet placement over an ICD failed to suspend tachyarrhythmia therapy because of imprecise magnet positioning. This case demonstrates the possibility for error when relying on a magnet to suspend tachyarrhythmia therapies.

Intersection of Heart Failure and Pregnancy: Beyond Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnant women in the United States. Although peripartum cardiomyopathy is the most common diagnosis for pregnant women with HF, women with preexisting cardiomyopathies and systolic dysfunction are also at risk as the hemodynamic demands of pregnancy can lead to decompensation, arrhythmia, and rarely death. The differential diagnosis of HF in pregnancy is broad and includes Takotsubo or stress cardiomyopathy, exacerbation of a preexisting cardiomyopathy, such as familial cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, or left ventricular noncompaction. This review will explore the implications of pregnancy in women with preexisting cardiomyopathies and de novo HF, risk assessment and preconception planning, decisions about contraception, the safety of HF medications and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators during pregnancy, pregnancy in women with left ventricular assist devices and following heart transplantation.

Microwave ablation for the removal of pharyngeal benign lesions: A prospective pilot case series

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated microwave ablation (MWA) for treatment of isolated pharyngeal benign lesions, in terms of technical feasibility, efficacy, and safety.

METHODS

The patients with pharyngeal benign lesions were treated with endoscopic MWA with a 2450-MHz single cooled-shaft microwave antenna and sent for histological examination. Postoperative pain intensity was measured via visual analogue scale (VAS) on the 12th hour and the third postoperative days.

RESULTS

Of the 137 patients with pharyngeal benign lesions who met the inclusion criteria. The most commonly involved site was the uvula (n = 66, 48.2%), followed by the lateral pharyngeal wall (n = 37, 27.0%), the nasopharyngeal posterior wall (n = 23, 16.8%) and the soft palate (n = 11, 8.0%). All of the procedures were completed using local anesthesia and were well-tolerated by the patients. The ablation time was 5-10 min, with an average duration of 6.3 ± 1.8 min. The most common pathology was papilloma (n = 96, 70.1%), followed by nasopharyngeal cysts (n = 21, 15.3%), polyp (n = 10, 7.3%), epidermoid cysts (n = 8, 5.8%) and Thornwaldt cysts (n = 2, 1.5%). The mean VAS pain score was 2.36 ± 1.08 on postoperative 12th hour and 1.21 ± 0.54 on postoperative third day. At the 6-month follow-up examination, there were no severe complications, such as recurrence, bleeding, or synechiae of the nasal cavity, eustachian tube injury, in any of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The MWA for the treatment of isolated pharyngeal benign lesion is feasible and alternative to conventional surgical methods, it allows excision of the lesion while providing hemostasis, involves only a short ablation time and has a very low risk of complications. Most of our patients well-tolerate the procedure, which may be performed under local anesthesia in the outpatient setting.

Perioperative Management of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices: A Single-Center Report of 469 Interrogations

OBJECTIVE

Anesthesiologists increasingly are involved in the perioperative management of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). The variety of devices available and the ongoing advancements in technology, programming capabilities, and responses to conventional management (eg, magnet application) complicate the management of these devices. As an aid to this clinical challenge, this manuscript reviews 469 interrogations performed by a single cardiac anesthesiologist during a 4.5-year period to derive useful information with which to guide anesthesiologists who have chosen to pursue training in this area of perioperative care.

DESIGN

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

SETTING

Single institution, quaternary care hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with CIEDs presenting for surgery; the quality assurance (QA) reports of 469 interrogations performed between May 2015 and September 2019 were reviewed.

INTERVENTIONS

No intervention.

MEASUREMENT AND MAIN RESULTS

The distributions of surgical procedures, device types, device manufacturers, pacing modes, rate-response sensors, special functions, and performed interventions were reviewed and analyzed. The QA reports were evaluated to identify information or experiences that demonstrated important lessons for anesthesiologists engaging in perioperative CIED management.

CONCLUSIONS

This database review provides general guidance for anesthesiologists managing CIEDs in the perioperative period. Concepts germane to the operating room are emphasized.

Patient with an implantable cardiac electrical stimulation device. What should the anesthesiologist know?

Patients with implantable electric stimulation devices are challenging to the anesthesiologist since these cases demand a comprehensive knowledge about how the device operates, the indications for the implant and the implications that must be addressed during the perioperative period . This article is intended to provide the reader with clear and structured information so that the anesthesiologist will be able to safely deal with the situation of a patient with an implantable cardiac stimulation device, who has been programmed for emergent surgery. A search for the scientific evidence available was conducted in Pubmed / Medline, ScienceDirect, OVID, SciELO), for a non-systematic review. The incidence of the use of cardiac electric stimulation devices has been growing. Their operation is increasingly complex, and demands being constantly updated on the knowledge in the area.

Implementation of a Postoperative Electronic Health Record Alert for Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Patients

PURPOSE

Approximately 2% of surgical patients have an existing cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED). Perioperative device reprogramming requires postoperative care to ensure that device settings are restored. Electronic health record (EHR) alerts have been shown to improve communication between providers and decrease time to necessary interventions in other areas of medicine. The aim of this quality improvement project was to create an EHR alert for postoperative CIED patients who require device reprogramming to help clinicians track, remember, and document the timely and safe restoration of device settings.

DESIGN

This project used a pre-post observational design.

METHODS

This project was conducted at a major academic medical center using a pre-post observational design. To prevent anesthesia providers from closing an encounter in the EHR before postoperative restoration of device settings, an alert was developed and embedded within the intraoperative EHR to track preoperative device reprogramming, and alert anesthesia providers to perform and document postoperative restoration of safe settings.

FINDINGS

The postimplementation group (n = 272) had fewer unknown or undocumented preoperative CIED interventions (12.9% vs 30.9%), a 7.3% shorter device suspension time (median = 165 minutes vs 178 minutes), 6.8% improvement in documentation of postoperative re-enabling of device therapies (78.8% vs 72.0%), and a 72.48% decrease in length of stay (median = 625 hours vs 172 hours) when compared with the preimplementation group (n = 132).

CONCLUSION

Electronic prompts effectively captured patients who received preoperative CIED reprogramming and provided a process for reprogramming devices to safe settings, both significant steps in preventing negative patient outcomes associated with undocumented CIED interventions. Perioperative CIED documentation improved, and length of stay decreased after project implementation.

Inappropriate Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Therapy With the Use of an Underbody Electrosurgery Dispersive Electrode

Perioperative management of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators is an important part of anesthetic care. Society recommendations and expert consensus statements exist to aid clinicians, and they have identified the umbilicus as an important landmark in decision-making. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator antitachycardia therapy may not need to be deactivated for infraumbilical surgery because electromagnetic interference is unlikely to occur. The authors present two cases in which inappropriate antitachycardia therapy occurred intraoperatively with use of an underbody dispersive electrode, even though both surgeries were infraumbilical. The authors also present two cadaver models to demonstrate how monopolar electrosurgery below the umbilicus is sensed using both traditional and underbody dispersive electrosurgical return electrodes.

The Year in Electrophysiology: Selected Highlights From 2020

This article is the third in an annual series for the Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia. The authors thank the Editor-in-Chief Dr. Kaplan, the Associate Editor-in-Chief Dr. Augoustides, and the editorial board for the opportunity to continue this series; namely, the highlights of the year that pertain to electrophysiology in relation to cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia. This third article focuses on the convergent procedure, His-bundle pacing, a comparison of subcutaneous and transvenous defibrillator therapies, the 2020 practice advisory update for the perioperative management of patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices, and a technology update regarding the Micra AV (Medtronic, Moundsview, MN), the EMPOWER leadless pacemaker (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA), WiSE-CRT (EBR Systems, Sunnyvale, CA), the Extravascular Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (Medtronic, Moundsview, MN), and the BAROSTIM NEO (CVRx Inc, Minneapolis, MN).

Preventing and managing complications in dermatologic surgery: Procedural and postsurgical concerns

The second article in this continuing medical education series reviews the evidence regarding the intraoperative and postoperative risks for patients and health care workers. We share the most up-to-date recommendations for risk management and postoperative complication management to ensure optimal surgical efficacy and patient safety.