Prevention, diagnosis, and management of atrioesophageal fistula

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2020 Jul;43(7):640-645. doi: 10.1111/pace.13938. Epub 2020 Jun 1.

Abstract

Atrioesophageal fistula (AEF) is a rare but deadly complication of radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation. Given its rarity, the diagnosis of AEF is usually delayed with a wide variation in management strategies, which contribute to the high mortality associated with AEF. As such, the most important step of AEF management is prevention, whereas early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to reduce its associated high mortality.

Keywords: atrial fibrillation ablation; atrioesophageal fistula; complication.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Fibrillation / surgery
  • Burns / etiology*
  • Catheter Ablation
  • Esophageal Fistula / etiology*
  • Heart Atria / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology*
  • Risk Factors