[Ventricular Fibrillation Induced by Electrocautery Conduction to the Pericardium During Surgery for Lung Cancer].

Abstract

We report a rare case of intraoperative ventricular fibrillation (VF) induced by electrocautery conduction to the pericardium during lung cancer surgery. A 59-year-old man underwent thoracoscopic left lower lobectomy. During dissection of the pulmonary ligament using an electric scalpel in coagulation mode( 30 W), the tip contacted the pericardium, resulting in VF. Immediate thoracotomy and defibrillation(20 J) successfully restored sinus rhythm. Surgeons should be aware of this rare but serious complication and ensure a defibrillator is readily available during thoracic surgery involving the pericardium.