Cerebral Embolization During AF Ablation – Pathophysiology, Prevention and Management

Citation : Nasir Shariff, MD, Nagesh Antha, MD, Manish Roy, MD, Hari Joshi, MD, Vadim Levin, MD

Catheter based ablation therapy has evolved as an invaluable tool in the management of symptomatic patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The procedure of AF ablation requires instrumentation in the systemic circulation predisposing to various concerns that can result in systemic embolization. We will describe the reported incidence of these events and refer to the various pathophysiologic explanations for their occurrence. Details on the risk factors and the relevant studies will also be reviewed. Preventive and treatment strategies in patients undergoing the ablation procedure will be discussed.