Pneumopericardium Following Radiofrequency Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: Insights into the Natural History of Atrial Esophageal Fistula Formation

Abstract

Pneumopericardium Following Atrial Fibrillation Ablation. We present a case of large pneumopericardium resulting from an esophageal pericardial fistula following ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF). The presentation, evaluation, and management of this specific patient, along with a review of present techniques to diagnose esophageal injury, provide a unique insight into the pathophysiology of left atrial‐esophageal fistula formation. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1046‐1049, September 2010)