Brugada-Like ECG Findings Detected After Resection of Esophageal Cancer

Abstract

We have observed 3 cases of Brugada like ECG findings after the resection of esophageal cancer. Case 1. A 63 years-old male who had atrial fibrillation (AF) was diagnosed as affected byesophageal cancer and underwent the resection of esophagus with subsequent reconstruction using stomach into retro-sternum. Post-operative ECG showed coved type ST elevation in lead V1-4. This finally gradually reverted in ten days after operation and normalized within 2 weeks. Case 2. A 69 year-old male, who had paroxysmal AF and esophageal cancer, received the same procedure as in case 1. His ECG revealed abnormal ST elevation in V1. In thoracic CT image, right ventricle (RV) was compressed by the reconstructed stomach. Case 3. A 68 year-old male underwent the same operation as described above. His post-operative ECG showed Brugada like ST elevation in V1-3. This ST change disappeared within 3 weeks. In none of these 3 cases, there was a family history of sudden death or syncope, and the previous ECG showed no ST segment elevation. The compression of the RV by lifted stomach was considered to induce the precordial ST elevation mimicking Brugada syndrome.