Radiofrequency ablation with anterior wall lesions for atrial fibrillation can lead to a rare, fatal aorto-left atrial fistula, highlighting the risk in elderly or frail patients.
Case Report (n=1)
Aorto-left atrial fistula is a rare but potentially fatal complication of radiofrequency ablation involving anterior wall lesions, particularly in elderly or frail patients.
Abstract Background Aorto–atrial fistulas are extremely rare and potentially fatal complications of cardiac procedures. Case report An 81-year-old woman with persistent AF underwent radiofrequency ablation with additional anterior wall lesions for extensive low-voltage areas. Seven days later, she was readmitted with nonspecific symptoms. Despite initial improvement with pharmacological therapy, she developed sudden haemodynamic collapse. Echocardiography revealed an aorto–left atrial fistula. Intensive treatment was unsuccessful, and the patient died. Discussion This case illustrates a rare, fatal complication of anterior wall ablation for atrial fibrillation. Awareness of this risk is essential, especially in elderly or frail patients requiring extensive ablation.
Krzyżanowski et al. (Thu,) conducted a case report in persistent atrial fibrillation (n=1). radiofrequency ablation with additional anterior wall lesions was evaluated on Aorto-left atrial fistula. Radiofrequency ablation with anterior wall lesions for atrial fibrillation can lead to a rare, fatal aorto-left atrial fistula, highlighting the risk in elderly or frail patients.