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The current study reports three cases of both adult and pediatric patients with a history of self-limited episodes of visual symptoms following ablative procedures for cardiac dysrhythmias. Neurological and ophthalmological evaluations were always unremarkable even when performed during the episodes. The visual disturbances subsided spontaneously, and none of the patients developed any kind of permanent visual damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iatrogenic migraine aura following transseptal catheterization has only rarely been reported in the literature. We report the case of a 60-year-old female who presented with new onset of migraine with visual aura 1 day after transseptal cryoballoon catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. The patient had a 5-year history of typical migraine without aura and had never experienced visual aura before the cardiac intervention. The neurological examination, fundoscopy, and blood tests were normal. The magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed small vessel ischemia without evidence of vessel ischemic changes in the occipital lobes and large blood vessel disease. A change in the characteristics of existing migraine could occur following an iatrogenic episode, which in this case was catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. A new onset of aura is considered an indication for a brain scan as it may signify underlying new pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the case of a 58-year-old woman who developed a headache and visual disturbances after a cryoballoon ablation procedure for atrial fibrillation at our institution. She presented to the emergency department four days post ablation and was admitted the hospital for overnight observation. Serial neurological examinations and neuroimaging were unremarkable for stroke or transient ischemic attack. The patient had some brief transient visual changes which resolved completely after several days, with no further clinical sequelae. She followed up in the outpatient neuro-ophthalmology clinic and had a normal visual field examination. She was given a diagnosis of new onset migraine with visual aura. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transseptal punctures are commonly performed, and left atrial (LA) access is frequently lost during lengthy, complex electrophysiology (EP) procedures. We describe a new technique for non-fuoroscopic re-crossing the fossa ovalis using a new multielectrode transseptal sheath (TS) and a new remote magnetic catheter navigation system (RMNS) (CGCI System, Magnetecs) that uses 8 rapid external electromagnets for real-time navigation of a magnet-tipped electrode catheter across the initial transseptal puncture site in 5 patients undergoing left-sided ablation procedures. The three-dimensional (3D) position of a 8.5 Fr steerable TS with 5-ring 5-15-15-5-mm spaced distal electrodes (Agilis ES©, St Jude Medical), and site of fossal ovalis crossing were "shadowed landmarks" on a 3D electroanatomic mapping (EAM) system (EnSite/NavXTM, St Jude Medical). The TS-magnetic ablation catheter assembly was pulled-back to the inferior vena cava. EAM landmarks were used with RMNS-guided "manual" and "automated" catheter navigation modalities, until septal crossing was obtained. Transseptal re-crossing was successfully performed in all patients in 6.2±8.1 sec using the "automated" RMNS-guided technique and in 30.4±28.4 sec using the "manual" RMNS-guided technique (p=0.01) without complications. This new RMNS was safely and effectively used to perform non-fuoroscopic transseptal catheterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

VT Ablation Through Internal Jugular Vein A retrograde approach to the left ventricle (LV) from the femoral artery is most commonly used for left ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation. However, as the patient population gets older, the prevalence of peripheral vascular disease and aortic valve disease increases, hampering the retrograde access to the LV, which may result in significant technical difficulties. The transseptal approach from the femoral vein is an alternative access to the LV. This approach has been effective for addressing LV VT originating from the posterior and posteroseptal region. However, the transseptal approach from the femoral vein is impossible if there are any obstacles in the inferior vena cava. There are also significant limitations in approaching the basal-lateral region of the LV from this approach. We demonstrated the safety and feasibility of catheter ablation of LV VT via the transseptal approach from the right internal jugular vein. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 24, pp. 596-599, May 2013) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to compare the performance of electrophysiology fellows in transseptal catheterization (TSP-C) after conventional (Conv-T) or simulator training (Sim-T). Background: Current training for TSP-C, an increasingly used procedure, relies on performance on patients with supervision by an experienced operator. Virtual reality, a new training option, could improve post-training performance. Methods: Fellows inexperienced in TSP-C were enrolled and randomly assigned to Conv-T or Sim-T. The post-training performance of each fellow was evaluated and scored in 3 consecutive patient-based procedures by an experienced operator blinded to the fellow''s training assignment. Results: Fourteen fellows were randomized to Conv-T (n = 7) or to Sim-T (n = 7) and, after training, performed 42 TSP-Cs independently. Training time was significantly longer for Conv-T than for Sim-T (median 30 days vs. 4 days; p = 0.0175). The Conv-T fellows had significantly lower post-training performance scores (median 68 vs. 95; p = 0.0001) and a higher number of recurrent errors (median 3 vs. 0; p = 0.0006) when compared with Sim-T fellows. Conclusions: The TSP-C training with virtual reality results in shorter training times and superior post-training performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Transseptal catheterization is an essential aspect of many electrophysiology studies. Difficulties may present at various stages of the procedure, especially with unique challenges posed by repeated catheterizations. More recently, technologies such as intracardiac echocardiography and radiofrequency have been employed to assist with transseptal catheterization. Integration of these tools into an organized approach for troubleshooting the difficult transseptal puncture is likely to improve procedural success and reduce the risk of serious complications such as cardiac tamponade. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 22, pp. 723-727, June 2011) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transseptal catheterization is used by interventional cardiologists to gain access in the left atrium. This technique was initially introduced for left-sided pressure measurements and has been integrated in a variety of procedures including left atrial ablations and percutaneous mitral valvuloplasties. The establishment of catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation as an effective treatment strategy has brought transseptal catheterization back to the limelight. Technique refinements, introduction of adjunctive imaging tools, and enrichment of available technical equipment have simplified the procedure. In the present article we review the technique of transseptal catheterization, presenting tips and caveats that could be of value for safe and successful transseptal punctures. (PACE 2010; 33:231–242) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Patients with atrial septal defect (ASD) are at higher risk for atrial fibrillation (AF) even after repair. Transseptal access in these patients is perceived to be difficult. We describe the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of pulmonary vein antral isolation (PVAI) in these patients. Method: We prospectively compared post-ASD/patent foramen ovale (PFO) repair patients (group I, n = 45) with age-gender-AF type matched controls (group II, n = 45). All the patients underwent PVAI through a double transseptal puncture with a roving circular mapping catheter technique guided by intracardiac echocardiography (ICE). The short-term (3 months) and long-term (12 month) failure rates were assessed. Results: In group I, 23 (51%) had percutaneous closure devices and 22 (49%) had a surgical closure. There was no significant difference between group I and II in the baseline characteristics. Intracardiac echo-guided double transseptal access was obtained in 98% of patients in group I and in 100% of patients in group II. PVAI was performed in all patients, with right atrial flutter ablation in 7 patients in group I and in 4 patients in group II. Over a mean follow-up of 15 ± 4 months, group I had higher short-term (18% vs 13%, P = 0.77) and long-term recurrence (24% vs 18%, P = 0.6) than group II. There was no significant difference in the perioperative complications between the two groups. Echocardiography at 3 months showed interatrial communication in 2 patients in group I and 1 patient in group II, which resolved at 12 months. Conclusion: Percutaneous AF ablation using double transseptal access is feasible, safe, and efficacious in patients with ASD and PFO repairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the value of radiographic esophageal imaging in facilitating transseptal catheterization in patients undergoing percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty. Subjects and Methods: A total of 468 patients were randomized into either the study group (n = 234), in which radiographic esophageal imaging by the oral administration of a contrast media took place, or the control group (n = 234), in which the Ross technique was used.Of the 468 patients, 203 were males and 265 were females. The average ages of the study and control groups were 53 ± 16 and 51 ± 17 years, respectively. The patients had severe left atrial enlargement, as measured using 2-dimensional echocardiography. Results: In the study group, the left atrial impression on the esophagus was clearly seen, and was used to identify the puncture site on the right atrial side for the passage of the transseptal catheter. In the control group, the left atrial silhouette was not clearly shown by fluoroscopy in 112 patients (47.5%). The success rate of transseptal catheterization in the study group was higher than in the control group (99.6 vs. 45.7%, p = 0.0001). There were no complications in the study group, but pericardial tamponade occurred in 1 patient in the control group. Conclusion: Radiographic esophageal imaging facilitates the identification of an optimal atrial transseptal puncture site, and improves the success rate of transseptal catheterization in patients undergoing percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty. Copyright © 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A substantial number of patients require a second left atrial procedure after ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF), either for left atrial flutter or recurrent AF. The success and complication rates of repeat transseptal catheterization in these patients are unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the difficulty and/or success rates of repeat transseptal catheterization after left atrial ablation for AF. Methods and Results: Consecutive patients undergoing repeat left atrial procedures after ablation for AF over a 1-year period were enrolled. Difficulties with, success rates, and complications of the first and second transseptal catheterizations were recorded. Sixteen patients underwent a repeat transseptal catheterization. Of the 4 in whom the first procedure was performed with an ablation catheter across a patent foramen ovale (PFO), 3 required a transseptal puncture for their repeat procedure. The remaining 12 underwent transseptal puncture without difficulty for their first procedure, and, despite the same operators for each patient, the repeat transseptal was noted to be difficult in 5. Of those 5, the transseptal puncture was unsuccessful due to increased interatrial septal thickness in 2 patients. One repeat transseptal attempt was aborted after posterior right atrial puncture with the transseptal needle occurred, attributed to distorted interatrial septal anatomy not observed prior to the first case. Conclusions: Compared with the first procedure, repeat transseptal catheterization after ablation for AF, whether initially performed across a PFO or via a transseptal puncture, is more difficult, less often successful, and potentially associated with more complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thrombus on Transseptal Sheath. Background:Transseptal (TS) catheterization is used for left atrial (LA) ablation procedures and a major risk is thromboembolism. The purpose of this study was to assess (1) the value of intracardiac ultrasound (ICUS) monitoring during LA ablation procedures, and (2) a new technique to reduce the risk of thrombus formation.Methods and Results:One hundred and eighty consecutive patients underwent TS catheterization under ICUS guidance with two sheaths for atrial fibrillation ablation and one for other LA procedures. Group I included the initial 90 patients in whom TS sheaths were flushed with a standard 2 U/cc concentration of heparin; group II consisted of the next 90 patients in whom sheaths were flushed with 1,000 U/cc concentration. All patients received bolus and infusion of heparin to maintain ACT between 250–300 seconds. ICUS was monitored throughout. In group I, echodense material at the tip of the sheath consistent with thrombus was observed on ICUS in 8 of 90 patients (9%) within 5–15 minutes of entering the LA. In group II, only 1 of 90 patient (1%) demonstrated thrombus (P<0.001). There were no significant clinical differences in group I patients with and without thrombus. In all nine patients, the clot was removed with vigorous aspiration. No patients suffered a neurological event.Conclusion:Thrombus formation on TS sheath, detected by ICUS, may be more common than expected despite adequate anticoagulation. Using a higher concentration of heparin for the TS system before deployment reduced the risk. The thrombus was retrieved with aspiration without the need to abort the procedure.(J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 16, pp. 1-5, June 2005) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a new approach for transseptal catheterization in patients undergoing percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV). Methods: One hundred and two patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis were randomized into two groups. In the study group (RA approach), an imaginary horizontal line was drawn from the top end of the tricuspid valve under anteroposterior fluoroscopic view. The intersection of the horizontal line and the right edge of the corresponding thoracic vertebra was defined as the upper border of the Fossa ovalis. The atrial septum was punctured from a point 0.5 cm below the upper border of the Fossa ovalis. In the control group (LA approach), an imaginary horizontal line was drawn between the upper and middle third of the left atrium, and the intersection of this horizontal line and the right edge of the corresponding thoracic vertebra was used as an atrial septum puncture point. Results: Atrial septum puncture succeeded in all patients in the study group and in 72.6% of the patients in the control group (p < 0.01). The average fluoroscopy times for transseptal catheterization in the study and the control groups were 2.0 ± 0.5 and 3.0 ± 1.0 min, respectively (p < 0.01). Transseptal catheterization was subsequently achieved using the RA approach in the 14 patients from the control group in whom the LA approach failed. Conclusions: The RA approach is a safe and effective means for transseptal catheterization in patients undergoing PBMV.Copyright © 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iatrogenic Aorto-Right Atrial Fistula. Aorto-cameral fistula, either congenital or acquired, is an abnormal connection between the ascending aortic root and one of the cardiac chambers. We report a case of a 61-year-old male with history of atrial fibrillation and 2 radiofrequency ablation procedures, referred to us for surgical Cox Maze procedure. Preoperative cardiac computerized tomography revealed a fistulous connection between the aortic root and the right atrium. Later, the patient underwent successful surgical closure of the fistula during the Cox Maze procedure. In this paper, we also discuss the clinical presentation, natural history, anatomy of the interatrial septum, and management of aorto-cameral fistula. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 659-661, June 2012) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transseptal catheterization is required for atrial fibrillation ablation and many ablations for atrial tachycardias, left atrial flutters, and accessory pathways. Using a Brockenbrough needle or other specialized device adds time, expense, and risk of potential complications such as atrial or aortic perforation, pericardial effusion, and tamponade to these procedures. We present a simple, low-risk technique for transseptal catheterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transseptal puncture is performed using a long needle advanced from the femoral approach. A radiofrequency catheter has been developed that delivers a short burst of radiofrequency energy and creates a micro puncture in the interatrial septum. We describe a case in which the distal radiofrequency electrode broke and became embedded in the interatrial septum. (PACE 2010; 33:e57–e58) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]