Immediate and long-term results of radiofrequency ablation of pulmonary vein ectopy for cure of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation using a focal approach

Abstract

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently initiated by focal activity originating in the pulmonary veins. We present the early and long-term results of a focal approach to pulmonary-vein ablation for cure of paroxysmal AF. Aims: The aim of this study was to establish the effectiveness of focal pulmonary vein radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for cure of paroxysmal AF. Methods: Fifty-one consecutive patients (35 male; 45 ± 11.4 years) were considered for RFA on the following criteria: (i) symptomatic drug refractory AF, (ii) high-density atrial ectopy, bursts of atrial tachycardia or AF, (iii) absence of structural heart disease and (iv) provision of informed consent. Pulmonary vein mapp..