In-office vasovagal response after rhinologic manipulation

Background Advances in endoscopic sinus surgery have led to a greater number of in-office procedures away from the traditional operating room setting. Rhinologists acting independently of anesthesiologists must be prepared for potential complications, such as vasovagal response (VVR), that may arise during in-office rhinologic manipulations. In this study, we review our experience with this condition and discuss risk factors and a management algorithm for in-office VVR. Methods A retrospective analysis at a large tertiary referral center was performed on all patients undergoing in-office endoscopic procedures with rhinologic manipulation between July 2008 and June 2012. A total of 4973 patients underwent in-office endoscopic procedures and 8 patients with VVR were identified. Demographic data, diagnosis, procedure performed, and outcomes were reviewed. Results Eight patients out of 4973 (0.16%) experienced VVR during in-office endoscopic procedures. Seven (87.5%) of these 8 patients recovered from the VVR within 30 minutes and subsequently completed their scheduled procedure. One (12.5%) of the 8 patients did not fully recover after 30 minutes and was sent to the Emergency Department, where he was stabilized and subsequently discharged. The most common comorbidities in these 8 patients with VVR were hypercholesterolemia in 3 patients (37.5%), and hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia, each found in 2 patients (25.0%). Conclusion Although the incidence of VVR during rhinologic procedures is low, rhinologists should be familiar with this condition and be prepared for its management.