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Review
. 2011 Sep 30;4(3):345.
doi: 10.4022/jafib.345. eCollection 2011 Sep-Nov.

Complications of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

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Review

Complications of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

Timir Baman et al. J Atr Fibrillation. .

Abstract

Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) has evolved as an effective treatment modality in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, complication rates associated with RFA of AF have been cited in the range of 3.5 - 5% with the majority consisting of cardiac tamponade, vascular complications, and thromboembolic phenomena. In this review, the complications of AF ablation will be discussed along with associated clinical management strategies.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Magnetic resonance imaging of a 66 year old woman presenting with atrio-esophageal fistula four weeks after atrial fibrillation ablation.

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