Show Notes
Background/Overview of VT:
Definition: What makes it a stormThree or more sustained episodes of VF, VT, or appropriate ICD shocks in a 24-hour periodPathophysiology: Understanding the origin and mechanismSympathetic drive/adrenergic surgeUnderlying pathology: Sodium channelopathies, infiltrative disease like cardiac sarcoidosis, etc.RF’s / trigger / population (reversible cause in ~25% of patients)MIElectrolyte Derangements (emphasis on potassium and magnesium)New/worsening heart failureCatecholamine SurgeDrugs (stimulants, cocaine, amphetamines, etc)QT ProlongationThyrotoxicosisSymptoms of VT: spectrum of symptoms – from palpitations to syncope to cardiac arrestDifferentiating VT from other potential ER presentations.Electrocardiogram (ECG): Recognizing VT patterns.Monomorphic vs polymorphic (Torsades) may change managementWide QRSFusion bestCapture beatsConcordanceAV-dissociationLab tests: Potassium, magnesium, troponins, TFTs, etc.Acute Management in the ER:
Hemodynamically stable vs. unstable VUnstable = cardioversionSedationCatecholamine surge should be consideredNo ideal agentEtomidate or propofol can be consideredKetamine may worsen irritabilityPharmacological treatments:AmiodaroneClass III antiarrhythmicMost studied in VT stormFirst lineBeta BlockersPropranololB1 and B2 activityNon-pharmacological approaches:Immediate synchronized cardioversionIABP / ECMO considered for HD unstable patientCath lab if ischemic etiology suspectedStellate Ganglion BlockDefinition: VT Storm is commonly defined as three or more sustained episodes of ventricular fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, or appropriate ICD shocks within a 24-hour period.Varied Presentation: Patients may experience a range of symptoms from palpitations to severe hemodynamic instability.ECG and Diagnosis: Initial ECG may not show VT; continuous cardiac monitoring or device interrogation may be required for diagnosis.VT Identification: Look for wide QRS, rate over 100, fusion beats, capture beats, and AV dissociation to identify VT.Management in Hemodynamic Instability: Cardiovert if the patient shows signs of hemodynamic instability.Sedation Considerations: Be cautious with sedation, especially with ketamine, as it may worsen cardiac irritability in these already adrenergic state patients.Medication Choices: Typically, amiodarone and propranolol are used to manage VT Storm.Cardiology Involvement: Involve cardiology early on, as treatment may extend beyond medications.The post PODCAST: Electrical Storm first appeared on האיגוד הישראלי לרפואה דחופה.