Ventricular fibrillation precipitated by carotid sinus pressure: Case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Carotid sinus pressure (CSP) is used often for both therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Despite its low incidence of attendant complications CSP can cause fatal arrhythmias. A case report of VT and VF resulting from CSP is presented and the literature is reviewed. The mechanism is unknown, but it is suggested that increased vagal tone and possible vagal-mediated catecholamine release may stimulate ventricular ectopic foci with the subsequent production of tachyarrhythmias. Knowledge of the potential complications of CSP and the ability to treat them is necessary to safeguard patient safety.