Premium
Esophago‐pericardial fistula after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation: A review
Author(s) -
Back Sternick Eduardo,
Soares Correa Frederico,
Ferber Drumond Leonardo,
Albuquerque Carreiro Rodrigo,
Alves Rabelo Manuela,
Tarso Vaz de Oliveira Paulo
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of cardiovascular electrophysiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.193
H-Index - 138
eISSN - 1540-8167
pISSN - 1045-3873
DOI - 10.1111/jce.14723
Subject(s) - medicine , fistula , atrial fibrillation , mediastinum , catheter ablation , ablation , esophagus , left atrium , catheter , cardiology , surgery , radiology
Much have been reported about esophago‐left atrium fistula. However, esophago‐mediastinal fistula, not reaching the left atrium, has not been studied as a different clinical entity, with different management. Methods and Results We review and discuss the literature of esophago‐mediastinum fistula after catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation with emphasis on the following points: the timing of its occurrence after ablation; the mechanisms and localization of the fistula; and its natural history. Conclusion We showed that esophageal stenting was associated with a better outcome in patients with esophagus‐mediastinal fistula, introduced the concept of left atrial wall weakening during ablation, and suggest a possible role of contact force use in fistula formation.