Early hyperbaric oxygen therapy for cerebral air embolism during atrial fibrillation ablation

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2019 Jan;42(1):104-106. doi: 10.1111/pace.13475. Epub 2018 Sep 17.

Abstract

Cerebral air embolism is a potentially life-threatening complication of left-sided ablation procedures. We present a 51-year-old woman with cerebral air embolism during atrial fibrillation cryoballoon ablation. Taking a deep breath while removing the dilatator was the most likely mechanism in our case. The patient was successfully treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy at early stage and was discharged without any neurological sequelae.

Keywords: ablation; atrial fibrillation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Fibrillation / surgery*
  • Cryosurgery / adverse effects*
  • Embolism, Air / etiology*
  • Embolism, Air / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperbaric Oxygenation*
  • Intracranial Embolism / etiology*
  • Intracranial Embolism / therapy*
  • Middle Aged