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Updated: Sep 29, 2025
28:13
Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
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Atrial Fibrillation Ablation-induced Pulmonary Venous Occlusion Requiring Pneumonectomy
Rajesh Venkataraman1, Pranav Loyalka2, Carlos Encarnacion3
1Methodist Debakey Heart and Vascular Center, Houston, Texas.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|March 25, 2022
Summary
A rare complication following atrial fibrillation ablation, pulmonary venous occlusion affecting an entire lung, led to a left pneumonectomy. This case highlights a novel severe outcome of pulmonary vein isolation procedures.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Complications
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation ablation is a common procedure for rhythm control.
- Pulmonary venous occlusion is a known but infrequent complication post-ablation.
- Previous reports detail single vein occlusion, not entire lung involvement.
Observation:
- A 71-year-old female presented with dyspnea and pleural effusion months after ablation.
- Imaging revealed occlusion of left-sided pulmonary veins and absent left lung perfusion.
- The patient had a history of persistent atrial fibrillation.
Findings:
- The patient underwent a left pneumonectomy (lung removal) and left atrial appendage occlusion.
- Histopathology confirmed extensive pulmonary venous occlusion.
- This represents a novel case of complete pulmonary venous drainage occlusion of an entire lung.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for severe, previously unreported complications after catheter ablation.
- It highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring for delayed complications.
- Further research may be needed to understand risk factors and prevention strategies for extensive pulmonary venous occlusion.
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