Cardiogenic Shock, Acute Severe Mitral Regurgitation and Complete Heart Block After Cavo-Tricuspid Isthmus Atrial Flutter Ablation

Cardiology Research
Thein Tun AungKevin D Kravitz

Abstract

Radiofrequency (RF) ablation is the first-line management of cavo-tricuspid isthmus dependent atrial flutter. It has been performed with 95% success rate. Adverse events are very rare. We report the first case of acute severe mitral regurgitation (MR) and complete heart block developed after successful atrial flutter ablation. A 62-year-old female with mild MR presented with palpitations. Surface electrocardiogram was suggestive of isthmus dependent atrial flutter. A duodecapolar mapping catheter showed an atrial flutter with cycle length of 280 ms. An 8 mm tipped Thermistor RF ablation catheter was placed at the cavo-tricuspid isthmus. RF energy was delivered as the catheter was dragged to the inferior vena cava. Temperature limit was 60 °C; the power output limit was 60 W. The patient converted to sinus rhythm with the first ablation line. Bi-directional block was recorded. Two additional ablation lines lasting 60 - 120 s were delivered. The patient started having chest pain and developed complete heart block with no escape rhythm. She became hypotensive and was immediately paced from the right ventricle. There were no signs of pericardial tamponade. Emergent bedside echo demonstrated severe MR with a retracted posteromedial ...Continue Reading

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