Teflon-buttressed sutures plus pericardium patch repair left ventricular rupture caused by radiofrequency catheter ablation: A case report

BACKGROUND: Cardiac rupture often occurs after myocardial infarction or chest trauma with a high mortality rate. However, left ventricular rupture caused by radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is extremely rare. METHODS: We describe a case of a 61-year-old male who survived from left ventricular rupture caused by a RFCA procedure for frequent ventricular premature contractions. Surgical exploration with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was performed when the signs of cardiac tamponade developed 7 hours after the ablation surgery. RESULTS: Teflon-buttressed sutures of the tear in the left ventricular posterolateral wall and pericardium patch applied to the contusion region on the wall repaired the rupture safely and effectively. CONCLUSION: Timely surgical intervention under CPB facilitated the survival of the patient. Teflon-buttressed sutures plus pericardium patch achieved the successful repair of the rupture.