Abstract 16542: Hypotension and Pericardial Effusion Associated With High Frequency Jet Ventilation

Introduction: High frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) is used to increase catheter stability and improve outcomes during pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) [1,2,4]. In studies, hemodynamic intolerance of HFJV was rare. [1,3]. Hypothesis: HFJV during PVI is well tolerated and vasopressor-resistant hypotension requiring return to conventional ventilation is rare. Methods: Retrospective observational analysis of hemodynamic, blood gas, and echocardiographic data of PVIs performed with HFJV by 2 operators (PT, JW) at our institution between February 2019 and June 2020. Results: Among 193 PVIs, 8 cases (4%) of rapid onset hypotension associated with HFJV were found (Table). In 7 of 8 cases, persistent hypotension and abnormal gas exchange required conversion to conventional ventilation and a new, small pericardial effusion without tamponade was noted just after HFJV initiation. In these cases, initiation of HFJV was associated with a decrease in systolic function. Both the hemodynamic changes and effusion resolved completely within minutes of stopping HFJV. Four of 8 patients were rechallenged with HFJV, and had recurrent hypotension and effusion which resolved immediately after return to conventional ventilation. Conclusions: HFJV-associated rapid onset hypotension, often accompanied by transient pericardial effusion, is more common than previously reported, and resolves with cessation of HFJV. The mechanism of these changes may occur via CO2 levels and warrants further study.