Work

Incidental Aorto-Atrial Fistula Complicating a Watchman Implantation Procedure

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: An aorto-atrial fistula (AAF) is a rare and often fatal condition involving abnormal blood flow between the aorta and an atrium. A 65-year-old male undergoing a Watchman procedure was found to have an aorto-left atrial appendage (LAA) fistula during angiography later confirmed by chest CT. The patient had recent acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) but no risk factors. Successful treatment involved arterial coiling of the fistula before Watchman device implantation. AAFs are best detected using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) or angiography, with TEE being more sensitive than transthoracic echocardiography. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality.

Source: CJC Open

DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2025.04.075

Authors: Blair Warren, Aakash Patel, Farhat Khairallah, Suman Pasupuleti, Roshni Kotwani

Institutions: Creighton University, CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center - Bergan Mercy, HCA Healthcare, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare

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: $2,590