Toward a Uniform Ablation Protocol for Paroxysmal, Persistent, and Permanent Atrial Fibrillation

Card Electrophysiol Clin. 2019 Dec;11(4):731-738. doi: 10.1016/j.ccep.2019.08.014.

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation catheter ablation has emerged as the most effective strategy to restore and maintain sinus rhythm. The cornerstone of atrial fibrillation ablation is elimination of triggers from the pulmonary veins by pulmonary vein isolation. Nevertheless, some patients may experience atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrences even with permanent pulmonary vein antral isolation. Whether and in which patients pulmonary vein antral isolation should be considered as the only ablation strategy remains a matter of debate. This review aims to summarize the rationale and effectiveness of different ablation approaches and identify key points for a uniform atrial fibrillation ablation strategy.

Keywords: Anticoagulation; Atrial fibrillation; Catheter ablation; Outcome; Stroke; Substrate; Trigger.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Fibrillation / surgery*
  • Catheter Ablation*
  • Humans
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic