ECG findings of acute myocardial infarction and atrioventricular block during a transseptal procedure for left atrial ablation

Hellenic J Cardiol. 2008 Jul-Aug;49(4):284-7.

Abstract

We report on a patient with transient atrioventricular block and ST-segment elevation mimicking the ECG of myocardial infarction during transseptal puncture for radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation. Symptoms and EGG findings resolved spontaneously. A neurally-mediated mechanism, activated by the mechanical effects of the transseptal puncture on the interatrial septum and leading to coronary artery spasm, may be considered as a possible explanation of this phenomenon. Coronary artery embolism following the transseptal procedure represents an alternative mechanism. The above mechanisms could also explain the atrioventricular block.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Atrial Fibrillation / surgery*
  • Atrial Flutter / surgery*
  • Atrioventricular Block / diagnosis*
  • Catheter Ablation
  • Coronary Vasospasm / diagnosis
  • Coronary Vasospasm / physiopathology
  • Electrocardiography*
  • Heart Septum / surgery
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnosis*
  • Myocardial Infarction / physiopathology
  • Time Factors