Peri-Operative Anesthetic Management of Left Atrial-Esophageal Fistula

Atrial-esophageal fistulas are rare and potentially fatal complications that can occur from radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Due to the proximity of the right atrium to the esophagus, thermal injuries can involuntarily lead to connections between the heart and esophagus. In this case study, a 67-year-old male developed an atrial-esophageal fistula following atrial fibrillation ablation. After discharge, the patient first presented with melena with a range of complications including aspiration, fever, atrial fibrillation, and neurological symptoms. The fistula was repaired promptly after diagnosis requiring meticulous planning by the anesthesia and surgical teams. The major consideration from anesthesiology was providing adequate oxygenation during one-lung ventilation via continuous positive airway pressure on the non-dependent lung. This case also highlights the need for recognizing and managing potential complications associated with catheter ablation procedures. A thorough understanding of these rare but critical events is essential for optimizing patient outcomes and minimizing mortality rates, and physicians and healthcare professionals must remain vigilant regarding such complications.