Clinical Practice and Cases in Emergency Medicine (Feb 2022)

Managing Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Precipitated by Anesthesia-assisted Rapid Opioid Detoxification: A Case Report

  • Michael F. Sobin,
  • Liem Ngo,
  • Danielle Turner Lawrence,
  • Abigail Kirwen

DOI
https://doi.org/10.5811/cpcem.2021.9.53868
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 6, no. 1

Abstract

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Introduction: Anesthesia-assisted rapid opioid detoxification (AAROD) is a controversial method of treating opioid dependence that involves sedating patients during a period of provoked withdrawal. Reported adverse outcomes of the procedure demonstrate the importance of recognizing the potential complications of AAROD. Case Presentation: We present a case of a 41-year-old male presenting with a subarachnoid hemorrhage following an AAROD procedure. Conclusion: This case report and discussion reviews the pathophysiology of opioid withdrawal syndrome, potential complications following AAROD, and important management considerations.