Successful ECPR in a teen with brugada syndrome presenting as unexplained cardiac arrest

This case report presents the successful management of a 16-year-old male patient who initially presented with unexplained cardiac arrest (UCA) and was subsequently diagnosed with Brugada syndrome. The patient, who was on propranolol and propafenone for supraventricular tachycardia, developed in-hospital hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiac arrest. Following 110 minutes of prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) was implemented, and the patient recovered without neurological sequelae. Initially suspected to be drug intoxication, genetic testing revealed Brugada syndrome as the underlying etiology. This case highlights the importance of timely ECPR application in unexplained cardiac arrest. This report underscores the significance of proper patient selection, timing, and logistical coordination for ECPR, supporting the potential of ECPR in Brugada syndrome.