Benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia during an outpatient procedure

Outpatient transesophageal echocardiography was performed in a 69-year-old man with a history of aortic valve repair. During the procedure the patient became markedly cyanotic and hypotensive. Oxygen saturation measured by pu lse oximetry decreased from 97% to the mid-80s. The man's condition continu ed to deteriorate. On transfer to a critical care unit, blood analysis by c o-oximetry showed methemoglobin saturation of 67.8%. The patient's conditio n improved significantly after intravenous administration of methylene blue 1 mg/kg. With increasing numbers of outpatient procedures performed under topical anesthesia, measures should be in place to deal with a potential li fe-threatening adverse event such as methemoglobinemia.