Lipid Emulsion in the Successful Resuscitation of Local Anesthetic Toxicity after Ankle Block

Abstract

Unexpected occurrence of local anesthetic toxicity is not rare and can cause fatal complications that do not respond to any known drug of intervention. Recently, the successful use of lipid emulsion for local anesthetic toxicity has been reported and recommended as a rescue method for cardiac or neurologic complications. We report a case of seizure attack and respiratory arrest successfully recovered with the use of intravenous lipid emulsion. Clinicians must be aware of the beneficial role of lipid emulsion in cases of local anesthetic toxicity.

Keywords

• anesthetics, local
• antidotes
• intravenous lipid emulsions
• neurotoxicity syndromes