Fatal Spontaneous Intercostal Artery Bleeding During Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

JACC Case Rep. 2022 Nov 3;4(24):101614. doi: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2022.08.030. eCollection 2022 Dec 21.

Abstract

Serious adverse events such as hemothorax are rarely seen in catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. A recent case report discussed hemothorax from injury of the intercostal artery during atrial fibrillation ablation. Our case presents a patient with spontaneous bleeding from the intercostal artery that led to hemothorax, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and death. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).

Keywords: AF, atrial fibrillation; CT, computed tomography; DIC, disseminated intravascular coagulation; ICA, intercostal artery; atrial fibrillation; catheter ablation; intercostal artery bleeding.

Publication types

  • Case Reports