Aorto-atrial fistula following internal jugular vein catheterization

H D Danenberg1, Y Hasin, E Milgalter

  • 1Division of Medicine, Hadassah University Hospital, Ein-Karem, Jerusalem, Israel.

European Heart Journal
|February 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

A liver tumor stent procedure led to atrial fibrillation and heart failure. A rare aortic root to right atrium fistula was discovered post-procedure.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Interventional Radiology
  • Hepatology

Background:

  • Giant liver hemangiomas can cause venous obstruction.
  • Percutaneous transjugular stent placement is a treatment for hepatic vein compression.

Observation:

  • A 48-year-old woman developed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and right-sided heart failure after a liver vein stent procedure.
  • Cardiac imaging revealed a fistula between the aortic root and the right atrium.

Findings:

  • The patient's symptoms were attributed to an iatrogenic fistula between the aorta and the right atrium.
  • Surgical confirmation of the fistula was achieved.

Implications:

  • This case highlights a rare complication of transjugular procedures.
  • Awareness of this potential fistula is crucial for managing similar cases.
  • Further research into preventative measures for such fistulas may be warranted.

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