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Case Reports
. 2021 May 26;3(8):1132-1135.
doi: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2021.02.031. eCollection 2021 Jul 21.

Esophagopericardial Fistula Following Radiofrequency Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: Insights Into Its Management

Hajar Hasan Kheslat  1 , Steven Kelly  1 , Harsh Singh  1 , Ian Crozier  1
Affiliations
Case Reports

Esophagopericardial Fistula Following Radiofrequency Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: Insights Into Its Management

Hajar Hasan Kheslat et al. JACC Case Rep. .

Abstract

An esophagopericardial fistula developed in a 33-year-old patient after radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation. He was initially managed with an esophageal repair and a left atrial bovine pericardial patch and eventually an esophagectomy. At 6-month follow up he had no symptoms. The case highlights the complexities of managing this life-threatening complication. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.).

Keywords: AF, atrial fibrillation; CT, computed tomography; RFA, radiofrequency ablation; atrial fibrillation ablation; atrioesophageal fistula; esophagopericardial fistula.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose.

Figures

None
Graphical abstract
Figure 1
Figure 1
Electrocardiogram on Admission The electrocardiogram shows widespread ST-segment elevation in a pericarditis pattern.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Chest Radiograph on Admission Chest radiograph shows pneumopericardium and a left-sided small pleural effusion.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Computed Tomography on Admission Oral contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography at the index presentation. Contrast material within the esophagus and pericardial sac is demonstrated, as well as large pneumopericardium.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Esophageal Endoscopy Endoscopic images demonstrating (A) a persistent esophagopericardial fistula and (B) placement of an esophageal stent.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

Comment in

References

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