Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026
Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
Surgical Repair of Postablation Pulmonary Vein Stenosis Using the Left Atrial Appendage
Masayoshi Umesue1, Masayuki Shimada1, Toru Yasutsune1
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Matsuyama Redcross Hospital, Ehime, Japan.
Background:
Pulmonary vein (PV) stenosis is a serious complication after ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF). Most symptomatic patients are treated with balloon angioplasty or stenting, although the risk of restenosis remains high.
Case Summary:
We report a case of postablation PV stenosis that was surgically treated using the left atrial appendage (LAA). The patient presented with fatigue 5 years after radiofrequency ablation for persistent AF. The diagnosis was severe stenosis of the left superior PV, and surgery was indicated. The LAA was anastomosed side to side with the left superior PV. Intraoperative echocardiography showed improved blood return, which was maintained at 6 months postoperatively.
Discussion:
This case demonstrates that the LAA is a viable option for left superior PV stenosis repair.
Take-Home Message:
PV stenosis should be considered in patients after ablation for AF, and the LAA may be a good option for repair of left superior PV stenosis.
