Left atrial appendectomy after failed catheter ablation of a focal atrial tachycardia originating in the left atrial appendage

Pediatr Cardiol. 2010 Aug;31(6):908-11. doi: 10.1007/s00246-010-9737-2. Epub 2010 May 26.

Abstract

This report describes a case of left atrial appendectomy after a failed endocardial catheter ablation of a continuous drug-refractory left atrial appendage (LAA) tachycardia in a 9-year-old boy. Electrophysiologic study showed atrial tachycardia (AT) originating in the LAA. Numerous radiofrequency applications with an irrigated-tip catheter were ineffective. During surgery, direct pressure on the apex of the LAA by forceps immediately terminated the AT and restored sinus rhythm. After a left atrial appendectomy, the patient remained free of any arrhythmias during a follow-up period of 18 months.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Appendage / surgery*
  • Cardiac Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Catheter Ablation*
  • Child
  • Echocardiography
  • Electrocardiography
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Reoperation
  • Tachycardia, Ectopic Atrial / diagnosis
  • Tachycardia, Ectopic Atrial / physiopathology
  • Tachycardia, Ectopic Atrial / surgery*
  • Treatment Failure