Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026
11:21
Robotic Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: May 29, 2015
Complete atrioventricular block during ablation of atrial flutter
Beatrice Brembilla-Perrot1, Mourad Lemdersi Filali, Daniel Beurrier
1Cardiology, CHU of Brabois, Vandoeuvre les Nancy, France. b.brembilla-perrot@chu-nancy.fr
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|December 23, 2009
Summary
A rare complication during atrial flutter ablation caused complete atrioventricular block due to right coronary artery occlusion. Prompt recanalization restored normal heart rhythm, highlighting an exceptional event in radiofrequency catheter ablation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Radiofrequency catheter ablation is a standard treatment for typical atrial flutter.
- Atrioventricular block is a potential complication, though rare, during cardiac procedures.
Observation:
- A 51-year-old patient experienced complete atrioventricular block during isthmic radiofrequency catheter ablation for typical atrial flutter.
- The block was attributed to acute occlusion of the right coronary artery (segment three).
Findings:
- Recanalization of the occluded artery led to immediate restoration of normal atrioventricular conduction.
- This complication occurred in one out of 740 consecutive atrial flutter ablation procedures.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing coronary artery anatomy and potential risks during ablation procedures.
- Awareness of such rare complications is crucial for interventional cardiologists to manage and prevent adverse outcomes.
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