Mechanisms of Phrenic Nerve Injury During Radiofrequency Ablation at the Pulmonary Vein Orifice

Abstract

Phrenic nerve injury can be more common than anticipated with RF ablation at the RSPV orifice. Relatively low tissue temperatures can injure the nerve. Immediate nerve effects suggest a second mechanism of nerve dysfunction related to electrical current. Transient nerve effects occur prior to permanent damage, providing an opportunity to discontinue energy delivery before permanent injury.