Conservative Management for Left Atrial Intramural Hematoma After Cryoballoon Ablation.

BACKGROUND

Left atrial intramural hematoma (LAIH) is an extremely rare complication associated with left atrial procedures.

CASE SUMMARY: We report the case of a 50-year-old man who developed LAIH during cryoballoon ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The lesion was detected immediately after the procedure by routine intracardiac echocardiography, enabling prompt management. Because the patient remained hemodynamically stable, conservative management with bed rest and close monitoring was chosen. The hematoma showed gradual regression, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 13 without secondary complications.

DISCUSSION: Although surgical intervention is often required in hemodynamically unstable patients, this case demonstrated that conservative management can be an effective strategy for hemodynamically stable patients with LAIH.

TAKE-HOME MESSAGES: LAIH can be successfully managed with conservative treatment in hemodynamically stable patients. Early recognition and timely intervention are essential for complete resolution.