Left phrenic nerve injury during cryoballoon ablation of the left superior pulmonary vein

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2012 Nov;35(11):e334-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2012.03470.x. Epub 2012 Jul 30.

Abstract

Transcatheter ablation of the pulmonary veins (PVs) has been established as a therapeutic option for patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation. Cryothermal energy is an alternative energy source that has been developed to overcome some of the disadvantages of radiofrequency ablation. The major complication of the cryoballoon technique seems to be right-sided phrenic nerve injury (PNI) following ablation of the right superior PV. This case report describes a left-sided PNI after cryoballoon ablation of the left superior PV.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Angioplasty, Balloon / adverse effects*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / complications
  • Atrial Fibrillation / surgery*
  • Cryosurgery / adverse effects*
  • Heart Conduction System / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Peripheral Nerve Injuries / diagnosis
  • Peripheral Nerve Injuries / etiology*
  • Phrenic Nerve / injuries*
  • Pulmonary Veins / surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome