Magnetic navigation and catheter ablation of right atrial ectopic tachycardia in the presence of a hemi-azygos continuation: a magnetic navigation case using 3D electroanatomical mapping.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

We report on a 63-year-old female patient in whom an electrophysiologic study discovered a hemi-azygos continuation. Using the magnetic navigation system, remote-controlled ablation was performed in conjunction with the 3D electroanatomical mapping system.

METHODS AND RESULTS:

Failing the attempt to advance a diagnostic catheter from the femoral vein, a diagnostic catheter was advanced via the left subclavian vein into the coronary sinus. The soft magnetic catheter was positioned in the right atrium via the hemi-azygos vein, and 3D mapping demonstrated an ectopic atrial tachycardia. Successful ablation was performed entirely remote controlled. Fluoroscopy time was only 7.1 minutes, of which 45 seconds were required during remote navigation.

CONCLUSION:

Remote-controlled catheter ablation using magnetic navigation in conjunction with the electroanatomical mapping system proved to be a valuable tool to perform successful ablation in the presence of a hemi-azygos continuation.

• Authors: Sabine Ernst, Julian K R Chun, Buelent Koektuerk, Karl-Heinz Kuck
• Journal: Journal of cardiovascular electrophysiology (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol) Vol. 20 Issue 1 Pg. 99-102 (Jan 2009) ISSN: 1540-8167 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 18662184 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Body Surface Potential Mapping (methods)
• Catheter Ablation (methods)
• Female
• Heart Atria
• Heart Conduction System (abnormalities, surgery)
• Humans
• Imaging, Three-Dimensional (methods)
• Magnetics (methods)
• Middle Aged
• Surgery, Computer-Assisted (methods)
• Tachycardia, Ectopic Atrial (diagnosis, surgery)