Recanalization of a Chronic Total Pulmonary Vein Occlusion Occurring after Transcatheter Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

Cardiovasc Revasc Med. 2023 Aug:53S:S288-S291. doi: 10.1016/j.carrev.2023.01.028. Epub 2023 Feb 2.

Abstract

Pulmonary vein occlusion (PVO) is a known complication of radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation. We present a case with delayed presentation leading to chronic total PVO. Computed Tomography (CT) imaging did not predict the presence of residual flow. Despite this, the occlusion was successfully stented using wire escalation techniques adapted from chronic total occlusion coronary angioplasty, with resolution of symptoms. This emphasises the importance of combining CT with invasive angiography for patient selection and interventional strategy. Innovative angioplasty techniques used to overcome PVO need to be balanced against additional risk of perforation when dealing with extra-cardiac structures.

Keywords: Ablation; Angioplasty; Atrial fibrillation; Interventional and structural cardiology; Pulmonary vein stenosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Angiography / adverse effects
  • Angioplasty / adverse effects
  • Atrial Fibrillation* / diagnostic imaging
  • Atrial Fibrillation* / surgery
  • Catheter Ablation* / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Pulmonary Veins* / diagnostic imaging
  • Pulmonary Veins* / surgery
  • Pulmonary Veno-Occlusive Disease* / diagnostic imaging
  • Pulmonary Veno-Occlusive Disease* / etiology
  • Pulmonary Veno-Occlusive Disease* / therapy