Radiofrequency catheter ablation has been commonly used for the treatment of drug-refractory atrial fibrillation. The esophageal injury along with the development of atrial-esophageal fistula (AE fistula) is fairly rare but is a devastating complication of catheter ablation. Described in 2004 for the first time, it is the most lethal of all the complications of catheter ablation with a high mortality rate. The clinical presentation of an AE fistula is variable, however, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent a fatality. We have reported a case of an AE fistula post catheter ablation for drug-resistant atrial fibrillation, along with its treatment, diagnosis, and possible preventive measures.

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http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7053677PMC
http://dx.doi.org/10.7759/cureus.6871DOI Listing

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