Work

Atrioesophageal Fistula: A Rare, Life-Threatening Complication of Pulmonary Vein Isolation

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is a common treatment strategy for atrial fibrillation refractory to medical therapy. Atrioesophageal fistula (AEF) is a rare complication of PVI, typically occurring 1 to 6 weeks after ablation, with an incidence between 0.1% and 0.25%.1 Symptoms are often nonspecific and include fever, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, hematemesis, dysphagia, and neurologic deficits.1 We discuss a case of AEF discovered in the context of hospitalization for symptoms of progressive dyspnea, chest pain, and fevers in a patient who underwent PVI 1 month prior.

Source: CASE

DOI: 10.1016/j.case.2024.06.003

Authors: Katarina L. Fabre, Mays T. Ali, Peter A. Noseworthy, John M. Stulak, Sunil V. Mankad

Institution: Mayo Clinic

Language: English

Topic: Atrial Fibrillation Management and Outcomes

Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $950