Journal of Clinical Anesthesia and Intensive Care

Case Report Open Access

Uncommon but serious: The risk of atrio-esophageal fistula (AEF) following atrial fibrillation ablation

Nicolas Wilmet , Ahmed Sanoussi , Hervé Deladrière , Seyed Javad Bidgoli

Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects 4% of individuals over 60 years old, an incidence rising to 9% in those over 80. For patients with symptomatic AF unresponsive to medication, catheter ablation is a common treatment, though it carries risks including cardiac tamponade, thromboembolic events, and rarely, atrio-esophageal fistula (AEF). AEF, a severe complication (up to 0.1%) with a mortality rate of 67%-100%, arises from thermal injury to the esophagus. Cardiac, neurologic or infection related symptoms appear 2 days to 6 weeks post-procedure.

J Clin Anesth Intensive Care, 2025, Volume 5, Issue 1, p1-6 | DOI: 10.46439/anesthesia.5.023

Commentary Open Access

Early icu mortality: An opportunity for proactive triage, ethical deliberation, and integrated models of care

Rita Pinto Medeiros , Carla Teixeira

Intensive care unit (ICU) admissions have increased considerably in the last decade. A group of patients that remains poorly characterized are the ones who die within the first 24 hours following ICU admission.

J Clin Anesth Intensive Care, 2025, Volume 5, Issue 1, p7-9 | DOI: 10.46439/anesthesia.5.024

Commentary Open Access

The modern era of neuromuscular blockade: From inflammatory mechanisms to innovative neuromuscular and reversal agents

Ehab Farag , Vanessa Bou Sleiman , Maged Argalious

The introduction of neuromuscular blocking agents by Griffith and Johnson 83 years ago revolutionized anesthesia and surgical practices. Muscle relaxants are vital for facilitating endotracheal intubation, minimizing upper airway trauma, and creating optimal surgical conditions.

J Clin Anesth Intensive Care, 2025, Volume 5, Issue 1, p10-15 | DOI: 10.46439/anesthesia.5.025