Using anatomical landmark to avoid phrenic nerve injury during balloon-based procedures in atrial fibrillation patients

ConclusionUsing the lateral border of the sixth thoracic vertebra as a landmark, which can be viewed under fluoroscopy during the procedure, physicians can triangulate the distance to the RSPV and determine the approximate position of the RPN. Furthermore, physicians can perform a preoperative echocardiogram to determine the size of the LA to assist in determining the position of the RPN with the hopes of avoiding injury to the RPN.

http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s00276-017-1895-y

Source: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy - July 11, 2017 Category: Anatomy Source Type: research