Related Experiment Videos
Catheter-induced A-V nodal block occurring during electrophysiologic study
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|March 1, 1984
Summary
A rare case of catheter-induced atrioventricular (A-V) block occurred during an electrophysiology study. The heart block resolved spontaneously over 12 hours, highlighting a potential complication of cardiac catheterization.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Electrophysiologic (EP) studies are crucial for diagnosing syncope.
- Atrioventricular (A-V) block can be a serious complication during cardiac procedures.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing an EP study for syncope developed sudden high-grade A-V block.
- The A-V block occurred as a coronary sinus electrode catheter was withdrawn.
Findings:
- The A-V block resolved over 12 hours, progressing through Type I second-degree and first-degree A-V block.
- This suggests transient A-V nodal or His bundle dysfunction induced by catheter contact.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but significant complication of cardiac catheterization.
- Understanding catheter-induced A-V block is important for procedural safety and patient outcomes.