Pneumopericardium following radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation: insights into the natural history of atrial esophageal fistula formation

Abstract

We present a case of large pneumopericardium resulting from an esophageal pericardial fistula following ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF). The presentation, evaluation, and management of this specific patient, along with a review of present techniques to diagnose esophageal injury, provide a unique insight into the pathophysiology of left atrial-esophageal fistula formation.