Hemorrhagic Pericardial Effusion and Gastrointestinal Bleed After Atrial Fibrillation Epicardial Ablation: A Case Report

TL;DR

A man developed heart and stomach complications after a cardiac procedure, requiring urgent treatment and highlighting the need for careful management.

Contribution

This case report highlights the rare but critical complications following atrial fibrillation ablation and appendage ligation.

Findings

Patient developed hemorrhagic pericardial effusion and gastrointestinal bleeding post-procedure.

Management included pericardiocentesis and anticoagulation reversal.

Case emphasizes the need for early recognition and multidisciplinary care.

Abstract

A 47‐year‐old male with persistent atrial fibrillation presented with melena and presyncope 3 weeks after epicardial ablation and left atrial appendage ligation. He was found to have hemorrhagic pericardial effusion with tamponade physiology and gastrointestinal bleeding from a clean‐based duodenal ulcer. Management included pericardiocentesis, anticoagulation reversal, and stabilization. This case underscores the interplay between cardiac tamponade and GI bleeding, highlighting the importance of early recognition and multidisciplinary management.

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