title: Right diaphragm paralysis following cardiac radiofrequency catheter ablation for inappropriate sinus tachycardia.
abstract: We describe a case of permanent right diaphragm paralysis following a radiofrequency cardiac ablation procedure. The relationship between the procedure and the phrenic nerve lesion is discussed with respect to the possible pathogenetic mechanisms. Radiofrequency current used in cardiac electrophysiology may cause serious thoracic nerve injuries. Means to avoid this complication are pointed out.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Medical Therapy, Internal Medicine Division, Ospedale Gesù e Maria, II University of Naples, Italy. emanuele.durante@unina2.it
authors.forename: Emanuele
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Durante-Mangoni
authors.forename: Davide
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Del Vecchio
authors.forename: Giuseppe
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Ruggiero
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010791:Phrenic Nerve / Q000293:injuries*; D012133:Respiratory Paralysis / Q000209:etiology*; D013616:Tachycardia, Sinus / Q000601:surgery*