Case Report: Point of Care Ultrasound for Bedside Diagnosis of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in the Post-anesthesia Care Unit
摘要
Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is a relatively common inherited worldwide disease, but only a minority of cases are clinically identified. The severity of symptoms does not correlate with the severity of the disease or the risk of sudden death. HOCM is treatable, and making an accurate diagnosis is paramount to longevity. This case report highlights point of care ultrasound (POCUS) in the perioperative period to diagnose HOCM in an asymptomatic patient in the post-anesthesia care unit.
MethodsThe patient experienced three syncopal episodes in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) following his intermediate-risk surgery. He had undergone three major surgeries previously without issues. In the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), a POCUS was performed to aid in the differential diagnosis of the syncopal events.
ResultsPOCUS provided a rapid assessment of hemodynamic distress, leading to a diagnosis of HOCM in this patient, prompting timely therapy that ultimately saved his life and enabled appropriate medical management and future cardiovascular follow-up.
ConclusionPOCUS in patients with hemodynamic instability enhances clinical perioperative decision-making, aids in a rapid diagnosis, and is instrumental in instituting lifesaving measures.