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Atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia in pregnancy: 'I have ice for you'.

Authors :: Abou R
Louwe LA
Jukema JW
Kortekaas KA
Source :: European heart journal. Case reports [Eur Heart J Case Rep] 2023 Jun 07; Vol. 7 (6), pp. ytad269. Date of Electronic Publication: 2023 Jun 07 (Print Publication: 2023).
Publication Year :: 2023
Abstract: Background: Pregnancy is a known trigger of novel and pre-existing supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. We present a case of a stable pregnant patient presenting with atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia (AVNRT) and application of the 'facial ice immersion technique'.<br />Case Summary: A 37-year-old pregnant woman presented with recurrent AVNRT. Due to unsuccessful attempts of conventional vagal manoeuvres (VMs) and refusal of pharmacological agents, we successfully performed a non-conventional VM with the 'facial ice immersion technique'. This technique was applied successfully at repeated clinical presentation.<br />Discussion: The role of non-pharmacological interventions remains pivotal and may lead to desired therapeutical effects without the use of any costly pharmacological agents with possible adverse events. However, non-conventional VMs such as the 'facial ice immersion technique' are less commonly known but appear to be easy and a safe option for both mother and foetus in the management of AVNRT during pregnancy. Clinical awareness and understanding of treatment options are imperative in contemporary patient care.<br />Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: None declared.<br /> (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)