Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Estimating Bilateral Atrial Function by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Feature Tracking in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
08:10

Estimating Bilateral Atrial Function by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Feature Tracking in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Published on: July 20, 2022

Embolic stroke, sinus rhythm and left atrial mechanical function

Renzo M R Lombardo1, Caterina Reina, Maurizio G Abrignani

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Ospedale S. Antonio Abate, Via Cosenza, 91016 Erice--Trapani, Italy. renzolombardo@libero.it

European Journal of Echocardiography : the Journal of the Working Group on Echocardiography of the European Society of Cardiology
|October 4, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Radiofrequency catheter ablation restored sinus rhythm but a stroke occurred two years later. Echocardiography revealed impaired atrial function and a left atrial appendage thrombus, highlighting risks despite successful rhythm control.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Electrophysiology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Radiofrequency catheter ablation is used to restore normal heart rhythm.
  • Atrial mechanical function is crucial for preventing blood clots.
  • Stroke risk stratification is essential in patients with atrial arrhythmias.

Observation:

  • A 64-year-old male experienced a stroke two years post-atrial fibrillation ablation.
  • Transesophageal echocardiography identified a left atrial appendage thrombus.
  • Despite restored sinus rhythm, atrial mechanical function was severely impaired.

Findings:

  • Impaired atrial emptying and reduced atrial volumes were noted.
  • The presence of a thrombus indicates a high risk of embolic events.
  • Echocardiography can reveal persistent mechanical dysfunction after ablation.

Implications:

  • Echocardiography is valuable for assessing embolic risk post-ablation.
  • Risk stratification aids in decisions regarding anticoagulant therapy.
  • Persistent atrial mechanical impairment necessitates careful patient management.

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