학술논문
Haemorrhagic cerebral air embolism from an atrio-oesophageal fistula following atrial fibrillation ablation
Document Type
Academic Journal
Author
Source
Perfusion. Sep 01, 2015 30(6):484-486
Subject
Language
English
ISSN
0267-6591
Abstract
We report the case of a man found unconscious three weeks following atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. Cranial and thoracic imaging demonstrated multiple areas of pneumo-embolic infarction secondary to an atrio-oesophageal fistula (AEF). AEF is a recognised, but rare, complication of AF ablation. Early recognition is critical as the mortality is 100% without surgical intervention. We consider the postulated mechanisms of AEF formation, the spectrum of clinical presentation, investigations and treatment.