[Takotsubo cardiomyopathy]

Transient left ventricular dysfunction with chest symptoms and electrocardiographic changes mimicing those of acute myocardial infarction is known as takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC). Because early left ventriculography reveals peculiar wall motion abnormalities and a balloon-shaped left ventricle, this was named takotsubo. Although the pathogenesis of TC remains unclear, physical or emotional stress is common in the majority of reported cases. The central role of sympathetic stimulation in TC is suggested by elevations in plasma catecholamine. Recently, TC cases occurring in perioperative period have been reported. Excessive perioperative catecholamine release, following deep anxiety or physical stress including pain, is likely to cause TC. We provide a brief review of, and comments on TC in perioerative period for surgeons.