CASE REPORT
Sudden cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation as the first manifestation of acute coronary syndrome – Importance of rapid intervention and modern assistive techniques
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1
Student Scientific Circle at 2nd Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland, Polska
2
Department of Cardiac, Vascular and Endovascular Surgery and Transplantology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland, Polska
3
2nd Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland., Polska
Corresponding author
Damian Kawecki
II Katedra i Oddział Kliniczny Kardiologii, Wydział Nauk Medycznych w Zabrzu, Śląski Uniwersytet Medyczny w Katowicach, Polska, Skłodowskiej-Curie 10, 41-800, Zabrze, Polska
KEYWORDS
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ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the most severe manifestations of acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
The prognosis critically depends on rapid diagnosis and immediate implementation of life-saving interventions by both bystanders and medical personnel.
Case report:
The case of a 65-year-old man is presented who experienced anginal pain for the first time in his life during daily activities. On his way to the hospital, shortly after entering the building, he suffered SCA due to ventricular fibrillation. Thanks to the immediate intervention of the hospital staff, the use of
the LUCAS mechanical chest compression system, and rapid transport to the catheterization lab it was possible to restore sinus rhythm after multiple defibrillations and successful angioplasty of an occluded left anterior descending artery (LAD). Despite the implementation of advanced treatments, including intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), the patient died due to progressing multi-organ failure.
Conclusions:
Effective and immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), rapid reperfusion, and the use of modern support techniques can lead to the restoration of circulation and consciousness, but do not always guarantee survival. This case highlights the importance of early intervention, good coordination of emergency teams, and public education on diagnosing ACS symptoms.
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