Sinus node dysfunction after radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial flutter: A case report

Atrial flutter (AFL) is the second most common atrial tachyarrhythmia after atrial fibrillation. Catheter ablation (CA) for typical AFL is well-established and has a high success rate and adequate safety. However, sick sinus syndrome (SSS) occasionally occurs when long-term, persistent AFL is terminated by ablation. Sinus node function cannot be assessed during AFL, and the preoperative prediction of underlying SSS has not yet been investigated. When this situation occurs, pacemaker implantation is often necessary. Here, we report a case of SSS after persistent AFL CA.

Automated summary

Atrial flutter is the second most common atrial tachyarrhythmia, and catheter ablation is a commonly used treatment. However, it may lead to sick sinus syndrome after terminating long-term persistent atrial flutter. The prediction of this syndrome before surgery has not been explored.