Acute Stroke After Upper Endoscopy in a Patient With a Suspected Atrioesophageal Fistula

Abstract

Atrioesophageal fistula (AEF) is a rare complication of atrial fibrillation ablation. We present a man with sepsis and frank hematemesis 3 weeks after atrial fibrillation ablation. Thoracic computed tomography showed no definitive evidence of AEF. He underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy and subsequently developed an embolic stroke. In the operating room, he was found to have AEF. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for AEF because of its nonspecific presentation and difficulty in diagnosing with imaging or endoscopy. Once AEF is suspected, esophagogastroduodenoscopy should be avoided because of the risk of precipitating embolic events.