Superior Vena Cava Isolation Research Articles

Extended Pulmonary Vein Isolation: is it sufficient to achieve long-term sinus rhythm in octogenarian women with atrial fibrillation?

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a disease of the elderly and women typically present with AF at an older age than men do. Moreover, they tend to experience more symptoms and post-ablation recurrences, have worse quality of life and increased risk of stroke and mortality. Objective We evaluated long-term efficacy of our standard ablation approach of extended pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in octogenarian women undergoing their first AF ablation. Methods Consecutive female AF patients aged ≥80 years receiving their first catheter ablation at our center were included in the analysis. Our standard ablation approach at the first procedure includes PVI + empirical isolation of left atrial posterior wall (LAPW) and superior vena cava (SVC). Complete abolition of all potentials rather than decrease in amplitudes was the procedural end point. Patients were prospectively monitored at regular intervals for 3 years after the index procedure with event recorders, 12-lead ECG, cardiology evaluation at office visits and 7-day Holter monitoring. Results A total of 194 patients with mean age of 84.2±1.4 years were included in the analysis. Of the 194, 120 (61.8%) had non-paroxysmal AF. All received PVI+ isolation of LAPW and SVC. Acute procedural success was achieved in 100% of cases. At 3 years of follow-up, 24 (12.4%) patients remained in sinus rhythm; 22 on- and 2 off-antiarrhythmic drugs (AAD). All of the 23 patients had paroxysmal AF as their initial diagnosis. Of the 170 patients experiencing recurrence, 147 underwent repeat ablation. PV/PW/SVC reconnection was noted in only 6 (4.1%) patients at redo. Triggers originating from non-PV sites were targeted for ablation in all. At 1.5 years after the repeat procedure, 136 (92.5%) patients were in sinus rhythm; 131 off-AAD and 5 patients on-AAD. Conclusion Extended PVI including isolation of posterior wall and SVC was not sufficient to maintain long-term sinus rhythm in majority of octogenarian women, regardless of AF type. Moreover, non-PV triggers rather than PV reconnection was the major cause of recurrence in this subset of AF population. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Feasibility of superior vena cava isolation in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices.

Some patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) require atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, and the superior vena cava (SVC) has been identified as one of the most common non-pulmonary vein foci of AF. This study aimed to investigate the interaction between SVC isolation (SVCI) and CIED leads implanted through the SVC. We studied 34 patients with CIEDs who had undergone SVCI as part of AF ablation (CIED group), involving a total of 71 CIED leads. A similar number of age-, sex-, and AF type-matched patients without CIEDs formed a control group (non-CIED group). Patients' background and procedural characteristics were compared between the groups. In the CIED group, lead parameters before and after AF ablation were compared, and lead failure after AF ablation was also examined in detail. Procedural characteristics other than fluoroscopic time were similar in both groups. The success rate of SVCI after the final ablation procedure was 91.2% in the CIED group and 100% in the non-CIED group; however, these differences were not statistically significant. Lead parameters before and after the AF ablation did not significantly differ between the two groups. Lead failure was observed in three patients, with a sensing noise in one patient and an impedance increase in two patients after SVCI. SVCI was achievable without lead failure and significant change in lead parameters in most patients with CIEDs; however, it should be noted that lead failure was observed in 8.8% of the study patients after SVCI.

Visualization of the electrophysiologically defined junction between the superior vena cava and right atrium.

An electrical superior vena cava (SVC) isolation from the right atrium (RA) sometimes can be challenging. For a safe and efficient SVC isolation, we aimed to visualize the accurate position of the SVC-RA junction on a three-dimensional (3D) mapping system using the decremental conduction properties of the SVC-RA junction in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). This study consisted of 15 consecutive AF patients (11 males, age 59 ± 10 years). A 3D mapping catheter was positioned in the SVC-RA junction region while delivering a single extra-stimulus from the right atrial appendage (RAA), to discriminate the RA and SVC potentials. The electrophysiological SVC-RA junction was defined as the most proximal points where the SVC potentials were recorded, which were tagged on the 3D mapping system around the SVC-RA junction, where radiofrequency energy applications were applied. Around the SVC-RA junction, 9 ± 2 points were tagged on the 3D mapping system. The highest and lowest SVC-RA junction points were located on the anterior wall and posterior wall, respectively. The difference in the level between the highest and lowest SVC-RA junction points was 16.2 ± 6.3 mm. A successful SVC isolation was obtained in all patients without any complications. The plane of the electrophysiologically defined SVC-RA junction was not perpendicular to the body axis, but slanted due to the anterior side being higher. Recognizing the precise location of the SVC-RA junction would contribute to a safe and efficacious SVC isolation.

P1000Aetiology and efficacy of atrial fibrillation ablation in young adults

Abstract Introduction Little is known regarding the aetiology or outcome of atrial fibrillation (AF) occurring in young adults. This retrospective analysis was performed to explore the demographics and efficacy of AF ablation in this population. Methods Patients were included who had undergone ≥1 AF ablation under the age of 40 between 2006-2018. Recurrence was defined as return of either documented AF or previous symptoms for >30s following a 3-month blanking period. Initial exploratory co-variates were included in a univariate analysis and those terms with P-value of <0.1 were then used to generate a Cox proportional-hazards multivariate model. Results 124 patients (33.6 ± 4.7 yrs, 77% men), initially presenting with paroxysmal AF (pAF; n = 97) or persistent AF (n = 27), underwent 175 AF ablation procedures. 22.6% (n = 28) also had atrial flutter. Time from symptom onset to first ablation was 50.7 ± 46.2 months. Relevant cardiovascular-related demographics were analysed: hypertension in 8.9% (n = 11); diabetes in 1.6% (n = 2); positive family history of AF in 12.9% (n = 16); and family history of sudden cardiac death in 2.4% (n = 3). Mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 0.35. Of those patients with documented echocardiogram imaging (n = 91), 26.4% (n = 24) had LA dilatation and 6.6% (n = 6) had LV dysfunction. Patients with LA dilatation underwent more ablations (2.3 ± 0.3) compared to controls (1.5 ± 0.1; p < 0.001). Ablation strategy was pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) only in 67.2% (n = 119), with additional ablation in the remaining: roof line in 18.9% (n = 33); cavotricuspid isthmus line in 13.1% (n = 23); mitral isthmus line in 2.3% (n = 4); superior vena cava isolation in 2.3% (n = 4); complex fractionated atrial electrograms in 14.9% (n = 26). Mean procedure time was 155 ± 41 min, mean ablation time was 1657 ± 991 s and mean fluoroscopy time was 32.6 ± 23.4 min. General anaesthesia was used in 43.4% (n = 76). Complications included femoral haematoma (n = 2), tamponade (n = 1) and pulmonary vein stenosis (n = 2). 90 days of follow-up was available for 137 procedures performed for pAF (n = 105) and persistent AF (n = 32). For pAF, overall recurrence was 61.9% for first ablations and 62.9% overall. Recurrence was 56.3% for persistent AF. Factors significantly associated with increased AF recurrence in univariate analysis were male gender (hazard ratio (HR) 2.3, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2-4.4, p = 0.011), hypertension (HR 0.5, CI: 0.2-1.1, p = 0.067), family history of sudden cardiac death (HR 6.8, CI: 1.6-29.0 , p = 0.010) and enlarged LA size (HR 2.2, CI: 1.3-3.6, p = 0.003). In multivariate analysis, the only significant predictor of poor outcome was enlarged LA size (HR 2.0, 95% CI: 1.2-3.5, p = 0.011). Conclusions Young patients with AF may have structurally abnormal hearts, and therefore do not only present with lone AF. LA size may be used as a predictor for success. Surveillance imaging may be useful to detect future structural change, which will be the subject of future prospective studies. Abstract Figure. AF ablation recurrence in young adults

P450The difference in the prognosis among three categories of the post-procedural left ventricular ejection fraction in patients undergoing atrial fibrillation ablation

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation has been known to contribute to a good prognosis in heart failure patients and improve their systolic function. However, the impact of the post-procedural systolic function on the prognosis in them remains unclear. Purpose To investigate the impact of the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) following AF ablation in patients with systolic dysfunction. Methods Out of 1078 consecutive patients who underwent AF ablation including extensive pulmonary vein and superior vena cava isolation, 170 with an impaired pre-procedural LVEF (< 50%) were evaluated. They experienced at least one echocardiographic follow-up within one year after the index procedure. The primary outcome was the composite of all-cause death or heart failure hospitalisations (HFHs). In addition, we categorised the patients into three groups according to the post-procedural LVEF within one year to evaluate the outcome: reduced LVEF (rEF, LVEF < 40%), mid-range EF (mrEF, 40% ≤ LVEF < 50%) and preserved LVEF (pEF, LVEF > 50%). Results After the index procedure, the patients’ LVEF improved with an average increase of 8%, and the post-procedural LVEF consisted of an rEF in 27 (16%), mrEF in 41 (24%), and pEF in 102 (60%) patients. During a median follow-up of 31 months, a total of 22 (13%) patients experienced the composite outcome, including 18 (11%) HFHs and 10 (6%) all-cause deaths (5 with cardiac issues, 2 any malignancies, and 3 other issues). In the Kaplan-Meier analysis using a Bonferroni correction, there was a significant difference in achieving the outcome between the rEF and mrEF, and rEF and pEF, but not between the mrEF and pEF groups (Figure). In a univariate analysis, the hazard ratio of the outcome was shown as follows: an age ≥ 65 years (hazard ratio, HR: 3.4 [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.4–8.5], p = 0.006), history of HFHs for AF (HR: 1.7 [95%CI: 0.7–4.0], p = 0.25), known underlying heart disease (HR: 1.9 [95%CI: 0.8–1.2], p = 0.13), pre-procedural LVEF < 40% (HR: 3.1 [95%CI: 1.3–7.5], p = 0.009), atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence (HR: 3.0 [95%CI: 1.2–7.8], p = 0.01), and the post-procedural LVEF category (mrEF and rEF, compared with pEF) (HR: 2.0 [95%CI: 0.4–7.7], p = 0.34; and HR: 8.6 [95%CI: 2.7–37.5], p < 0.0001). Furthermore, in a multivariate analysis, patients with a rEF was the sole independent predictor of the composite outcome after adjusting for confounders including an age≥65 years and pre-procedural LVEF < 40% (HR: 12.0 [95%CI: 3.9–40.0], p < 0.0001), whereas those with a mrEF was not (HR: 1.8 [95%CI: 0.4–7.3], p = 0.42), as compared to those with a pEF. Conclusions Patients with a mrEF had a comparable prognosis to those with a pEF in a relatively long follow-up, while those with a rEF had the poorest outcome of the three categories, regardless of the pre-procedural LVEF severity. Abstract Figure. The difference in the rate of outcome

Electrical isolation of the superior vena cava using second‐generation cryoballoon in patients with atrial fibrillation

The safety and efficacy of superior vena cava (SVC) isolation using second-generation cryoballoon (CB) ablation remain unknown. A total of 26 (3.2%) patients with SVC-related paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) from a consecutive series of 806 patients who underwent second-generation CB were included. Pulmonary vein isolation was initially achieved by CB ablation. If the SVC trigger was determined, the electrical isolation of SVC isolation was performed using the second-generation CB. Real-time SVC potential was observed in all patients. Isolation of the SVC was successfully accomplished in 21 (80.8%) patients. The mean number of freeze cycles in each patient was 2.1 ± 1.1. The mean time to isolation and ablation duration were 22.5 ± 14.2 seconds and 94.5 ± 22.3 seconds, respectively. A transient phrenic nerve (PN) injury was observed in five patients (19.2%). There were two patients (7.7%) experienced reversible sinus node injury during the first application. During a mean follow-up period of 13.2 ± 5.8 months, four patients (15.4%) had atrial arrhythmia recurrences. Isolation of SVC using the second-generation 28-mm CB is feasible when SVC driver during AF is identified. Vigilant monitoring of PN function during CB ablation of SVC is needed to avoid PN injury.

Safety and feasibility of electrical isolation of the superior vena cava in addition to pulmonary vein ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation using the cryoballoon: lessons from a prospective study.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of superior vena cava (SVC) isolation in addition to standard pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using the second-generation cryoballoon (CB) in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Thirty-seven consecutive patients that underwent CB ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) were prospectively enrolled in our study. After PVI the SVC was mapped for potentials. If the SVC exhibited electrical activity, isolation was achieved performing a single 180-s balloon application. Regarding SVC isolation, 180-s freeze in the SVC could be completed in 32 (86.4%) patients, and 5 patients had at least 120s of freezing application (13.5%). Real-time recording during SVC isolation was observed in 30 (81.0%) patients. The mean time to isolation was 36.9 ± 28.7s and the temperature at isolation was - 33 (- 15 to - 40) °C. No cases developed persistent phrenic nerve palsy (PNP) or any other complication. Superior vena cava isolation proved to be safe and feasible with the second generation cryoballoon in a prospective series of patients affected by PAF.

Effect of Combined Pulmonary Vein and Superior Vena Cava Isolation on the Outcome of Second Catheter Ablation for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Recurrence of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) is partly due to pulmonary vein (PV) reconnection and non-PV foci, especially superior vena cava (SVC). We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of empiric SVC isolation plus PV isolation after first failed radiofrequency ablation involving only PV isolation for paroxysmal AF. Procedural and follow-up outcomes of ablation for 144 consecutive paroxysmal AF patients after first failed radiofrequency ablation involving only PV isolation were retrospectively compared between patients undergoing either conventional SVC isolation (additional SVC isolation if SVC-triggered AF or rapid SVC activity was observed; n = 72) or empiric SVC isolation after PV isolation (n = 72). In conventional SVC isolation versus empiric SVC isolation groups: baseline characteristics and proportion of recorded PV electrical potentials were similarly distributed and all pulmonary veins were successfully reisolated; SVC isolation was performed less often (6 [8.3%] vs 70 [97.2%]; p <0.001, respectively); and during 19 ± 10 months follow-up, atrial tachyarrhythmias recurrence-free rate after a second procedure was lower (58.3% vs 77.8%, log rank; p = 0.037). Multivariate regression analysis revealed LA diameter ≥45 mm (odds ratio [OR] = 2.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4 to 4.6; p = 0.002) as the independent risk factor of atrial tachyarrhythmias recurrence and empiric SVC isolation (OR = 0.47; 95% CI, 0.25 to 0.87; p = 0.016) as the independent protector against atrial tachyarrhythmias recurrence after a second ablation procedure. Empiric SVC isolation plus PV isolation did not increase significantly procedural time or complications. In conclusion, the strategy of empiric SVC isolation plus PV isolation during a second procedure for paroxysmal AF improved atrial tachyarrhythmias recurrence-free rate without increasing procedural time or complications.

A novel simple, fast, and safe approach for effective superior vena cava isolation using the third-generation cryoballoon.

Superior vena cava (SVC) isolation with radiofrequency energy remains a challenge due to potential side effects, especially phrenic nerve (PN) or sinus node injury. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a novel SVC isolation technique using the third-generation cryoballoon (CB3). Patients undergoing atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation were prospectively included. The procedure was performed with the CB3, beginning with the pulmonary veins and ending with SVC isolation. During applications in the SVC, continuous PN capture and sinus rate were monitored. Once reached SVC isolation during the application, 60 s more was applied, with no bonus application. If after 90 s the SVC was not isolated, application was stopped. A maximum number of four applications were permitted. Thirty patients (62 ± 9 years; 74% male, 78% paroxysmal AF) were included. No SVC activity was observed in two patients. Success rate for SVC isolation was 89%. Mean number of applications per patient was 2.3±1. Mean time to SVC isolation was 37±20 s. Mean duration of application was 92 ± 15 s. Mean total time of procedure for SVC isolation was 218 ± 43s. We recorded only two complications: one transient PN palsy and one short and transient sinus arrest. After a mean follow-up of 5 ± 2 months, 89% are free from arrhythmia recurrence. We present a promising simple SVC-isolation technique using CB3, featuring a high success rate and very low incidence of complications.

P4764Relationship of the duration of pulmonary vein isolation-refractory non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation to the middle- to long-term outcome of the ExTRa Mapping-guided ablation

Abstract Introduction It is reported that for patients with non-paroxysmal (persistent or long-standing persistent) atrial fibrillation (Non-PAF), extended ablation to atrial walls in addition to pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) did not improve the long-term outcome. On the other hand, modulation of Non-PAF drivers (or perpetuators) has been proposed as one of the alternative effective ablation strategies for Non-PAF. Purpose To clarify whether the rotor ablation under online real-time high-density phase mapping system is effective for PVI-refractory Non-PAF ablation. Methods Under such circumstances, our academic group had recently developed the online real-time high-density phase mapping system (ExTRa Mapping™) by industrial alliance. The phase map moving images were based on 41 intra-atrial bipolar signals recorded by a 20-pole spiral-shaped catheter (2.5 cm in diameter) and on in silicorapid prediction of spatio-temporal atrial excitations (artificial intelligence system). Then we applied the ExTRa Mapping to clinical practice in order to directly visualize rotors in patients with Non-PAF, and investigated the middle- to long-term outcome of the ExTRa Mapping-guided rotor ablation (ExTRa-ABL). Results Thirty-eight patients (63±8 y/o, 30 males) with Non-PAF demonstrating refractoriness to PVI were enrolled in this study. Ablation for cavo-tricuspid isthmus and/or superior vena cava isolation was additionally performed at physicians' discretion. After these procedures, the ExTRa-ABL was performed in order to modify Non-PAF substrates, causing rotor control. The modification of the rotors was evaluated by re-mapping with the use of the ExTRa Mapping at the end of each ablation session. Patients were followed at 1, 3, 6 months and every year after the procedure. All of them were followed for 21±8 months. During the follow-up period, Non-PAF was recurred in only 8 of 38 (21%). Furthermore, we found if PVI-refractory Non-PAF duration was shorter than 6 years, the non-recurrence rate remained ≥80% (see Figure), which was markedly better outcome comparing with previous reports with regard to Non-PAF ablation. Figure 1 Conclusion Comparing with conventional Non-PAF ablation strategies, our novel approach with the use of the online real-time high-density phase mapping system might improve medium- to long-term outcome of PVI-refractory Non-PAF treatment.

P4761Impact of focal ablation versus isolation of the coronary sinus in patients undergoing repeat radiofrequency catheter ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation

Abstract Introduction Non-pulmonary vein (PV) triggers originating from the coronary sinus (CS) are a common finding in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. To date, no studies have investigated the clinical impact of focal ablation versus isolation of the CS in patients presenting triggers from this area. Purpose This study analyzed the effectiveness of two different approaches for CS ablation (total isolation vs focal ablation) in persistent AF patients undergoing repeat AF ablation. Methods Consecutive persistent AF patients undergoing repeat ablation were enrolled in this prospective analysis. All patients had triggers from the CS documented during high-dose isoproterenol. Pulmonary vein antrum isolation (PVAI) extended to the posterior wall (PW) plus superior vena cava (SVC) isolation was performed in all patients at first procedure. At repeat procedure, PV, PW, and SVC were re-isolated, if needed. Focal ablation or isolation of the CS was performed based on operator's choice either at first and/or repeat procedure, along with ablation of other non-PV triggers. Patients with triggers from left atrial appendage were excluded from the study. Results Overall, 628 consecutive patients (73.4% male, age 66.9±9.0 years) were enrolled. On the basis of the CS ablation strategy, patients were categorized into two groups: Group I received CS isolation (n=389) and Group II received CS focal ablation (n=239). Major clinical characteristics were not different between groups. PV reconnection was documented in 55 (14.1%) patients of Group I and 33 (13.8%) of Group II. The incidence of procedure-related complications was similar between the two groups (10 [2.6%] in Group I vs 6 [2.5%] in Group II; p=0.9). After a follow-up of 18±8 months, 276 (71%) patients in Group I and 115 (48%) in Group II remained arrhythmia-free (p&lt;0.001, figure.1). After adjusting for age, gender and clinically relevant variables, CS isolation was associated with a significantly higher arrhythmia-free survival rate (HR: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.37–0.61, p-value&lt;0.001). Conclusions In patients with documented triggers from the CS undergoing repeat ablation of persistent AF, isolation rather than focal ablation of the CS significantly increased freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmias in the long term.

Safety and efficacy of superior vena cava isolation using the second-generation cryoballoon ablation in a canine model

BackgroundThe safety and efficacy of superior vena cava (SVC) isolation (SVCI) using second-generation cryoballoon (CB) ablation remains unknown. MethodsElectrical isolation of SVC was attempted using the second-generation CB ablation catheter in 14 canines. Ablation duration was randomized to either 90 s (7 canines) or 120 s (7 canines). SVC venography was performed to identify the SVC-right atrium (RA) junction. The 28-mm CB was positioned above SVC-RA junction. Repeat electrophysiological assessment in the live animals was conducted 40–60 days post-ablation, after which animals were euthanized for histological examination. ResultsAcute SVCI was successfully performed in all canines. No significant differences in numbers of freezes (1.7 ± 0.8 vs. 1.5 ± 0.5, p = 0.658), time to isolation (TTI) (24.3 ± 8.1s vs. 22.7 ± 9.0s, p = 0.297), temperature at isolation (−23.4 ± 12.5 °C vs. −21.5 ± 11.1 °C, p = 0.370), and nadir temperature (−51.2 ± 6.2 °C vs. −53.3 ± 7.0 °C, p = 0.195) were observed between the 90-s and 120-s groups. There were no procedural complications except one transient sinus bradycardia in the 120-s group. After ablation, animals survived for 51 ± 5 days. Chronic SVCI was achieved in 6 of 7 (85.7%) SVCs in the 90-s group and 7 of 7 SVCs (100%) in the 120-s group (p = 0.299). Histological analysis revealed that a circumferential transmural lesion was achieved in all isolated SVCs. No sinus node (SN) and phrenic nerve injuries were observed. The minimum distance between ablation lesion and SN was 5.1 ± 3.0 mm. ConclusionsThe second-generation CB ablation catheter is both safe and effective in achieving SVC isolation in a canine model. Effective SVCI was found in the 90-s dosing strategy.

SVC Mapping Using an Ultra-High Resolution 3-Dimensional Mapping System inPatientsWithand Without AF.

This study aimed to characterize the superior vena cava (SVC) sleeve in patients with and without atrial fibrillation (AF). A few studies have examined the morphological characteristics of atrial myocardial extensions into the human SVC using autopsied hearts. Thirty-four patients with AF and 30 without AF underwent SVC mapping during sinus rhythm using ultra-high-resolution mapping. In 18 patients with AF, SVC isolation was added, and the SVC mapping was repeated. The median acquisition time was 7.7min (interquartile range [IQR]: 5.5 to 11.2min), and 2,478 data points (IQR: 1,620 to 3,350 data points) were automatically annotated. The electrically activated SVC sleeve length was asymmetric and longest at the anteroseptal SVC (27.0 to 28.0mm) and shortest at the posterolateral SVC (22.0 to 23.0mm). The sleeve length at each segment was similar in patients with and without AF, however, conduction time in the sleeve was significantly longer (76.1 ± 26.4ms vs. 61.0 ± 19.1ms; p=0.036) and conduction block more frequently pre-existing in patients with AF than in those without (3 of 34 vs. 0 of 30; p=0.047). The conduction velocity from sinus node was slower in upper direction (to SVC) than in other directions. Electrical SVC isolations were successfully achieved in all 18 patients without any complications. The conventional isolation line was a median of 20mm (IQR: 13.9 to 29.0mm) apart from and superior to the earliest activation sites during sinus rhythm. The isolated SVC sleeve length was longest at the septal SVC (median: 19.1mm [IQR: 11.8 to 24.2mm]) and shortest at the anterolateral SVC (median: 6.4mm [IQR: 0 to 11.3mm]). Ultra-high-resolution human SVC mapping demonstrated asymmetric SVC musculature sleeves and variations in the sleeve length in individual patients. Conduction disturbances were more prominent in patients with AF than in those without.

Efficacy of Ablation Lesion Sets in Addition to Pulmonary Vein Isolation for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: Findings From the SMASH - AF Meta-Analysis Study Cohort.

BackgroundThe objective was to explore the efficacy of ablation lesion sets in addition to pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The optimal strategy for catheter ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is debated.Methods and ResultsThe SMASH‐AF (Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis of Ablation Strategy Heterogeneity in Atrial Fibrillation) study cohort includes trials and observational studies identified in PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases from January 1 1990, to August 1, 2016. We included studies reporting single procedure paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ablation success rates. Exclusion criteria included insufficient reporting of outcomes, ablation strategies that were not prespecified and uniform, and a sample size of fewer than 40 patients. We analyzed lesion sets performed in addition to PVI (PVI plus) using multivariable random‐effects meta‐regression to control for patient, study, and procedure characteristics. The analysis included 145 total studies with 23 263 patients (PVI‐only cohort: 115 studies, 148 treatment arms, 16 500 patients; PVI plus cohort: 39 studies; 46 treatment arms, 6763 patients). PVI plus studies, as compared with PVI‐only studies, included younger patients (56.7 years versus 58.8 years, P=0.001), fewer women (27.2% versus 32.0% women, P=0.002), and were more methodologically rigorous with longer follow‐up (29.5 versus 17.1 months, P 0.004) and more randomization (19.4% versus 11.8%, P<0.001). In multivariable meta‐regression, PVI plus studies were associated with improved success (7.6% absolute improvement [95% CI, 2.6–12.5%]; P<0.01, I 2=88%), specifically superior vena cava isolation (4 studies, 4 treatment arms, 1392 patients; 15.1% absolute improvement [95% CI, 2.3–27.9%]; P 0.02, I 2=87%). However, residual heterogeneity was large.ConclusionsAcross the paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ablation literature, PVI plus ablation strategies were associated with incremental improvements in success rate. However, large residual heterogeneity complicates evidence synthesis.

Left atrial catheter ablation in patients with previously implanted left atrial appendage closure devices.

Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is increasingly used as an alternative to oral anticoagulation (OAC) for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Feasibility and safety of left atrial (LA) catheter ablation (CA) in patients with previously implanted LAAC devices have not been well studied. We report on the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of LA CA in the presence of a previously implanted LAAC device. In this prospective cohort study consecutive patients that underwent LA CA with a previously implanted Watchman device were included. Periprocedural characteristics and long-term clinical follow-up were evaluated. Twenty-three LA CA procedures were performed in 19/162 AF patients with previously implanted Watchman devices [47% male, age 63.9 ± 6.2 years, CHA2DS2-VASc 4.0 (3.0-5.0); HASBLED 3.0 (2.0-4.0); 63% paroxysmal]. Left atrial CA was performed with irrigated radiofrequency (RF; n = 20, 87%) or phased RF (n = 3, 13%) in a mean of 18 months after LAAC implantation (range 4-80 months). Targets of CA consisted of pulmonary vein isolation (n = 19, 83%), superior vena cava isolation (n = 13, 57%), and additional linear lesions (n = 8, 35%). Procedures were carried out under vitamin K antagonist (VKA; n = 6, 26%), non-VKA OAC (NOAC; n = 8, 35%), or single antiplatelet therapy alone (n = 9, 39%). Left atrial CA was successful without any signs of interference from the device. Procedure-related complications were not observed. During a mean follow-up of 28 months, 11 patients (58%) had AF recurrence. Left atrial CA after LAAC appears to be feasible, effective, and safe in this single centre cohort. Previously implanted Watchman device should not be a reason to relinquish CA in symptomatic AF patients, even in patients on single antiplatelet therapy alone.

Long-term outcomes of catheter ablation in patients with longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation lasting less than 2 years.

Outcome data after catheter ablation (CA) for longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation (LSPAF) lasting less than 2 years are limited and highly variable with different ablation approaches. We aimed to assess the long-term outcomes in patients with LSPAF lasting less than 2 years undergoing extended pulmonary vein antrum isolation (PVAI) versus those with additional non-pulmonary vein (PV) trigger ablation. In this prospective analysis, 381 consecutive patients with LSPAF lasting less than 2 years (age: 64 ± 9 years, 76% male, atrial fibrillation duration: 19 ± 5 months) undergoing their first CA were classified into two groups: Group 1 (n = 104) received PVAI extended to PW plus isolation of superior vena cava (SVC) and Group 2 ( n = 277) received PVAI + PW + SVC + non-PV-trigger ablation. All patients were followed-up for at least 2 years. In case of recurrence, repeat procedure was offered and non-PV triggers were targeted for ablation in all. After a single procedure, 26 (25%) patients in Group 1 and 172 (62.1%) in Group 2 remained arrhythmia-free (P < 0.001). A second procedure was performed in 58 of 78 (74.4%) patients in Group 1 and 77 of 105 (73.3%) patients in Group 2. Non-PV triggers were identified in 52 (89.6%) and 54 (70.1%) patients in Groups 1 and 2, respectively, and targeted for ablation. Overall, 72 (69.2%) patients in Group 1 and 238 (86%) in Group 2 remained arrhythmia-free ( P < 0.001). In patients with LSPAF lasting less than 2 years, extended PVAI plus SVC isolation was less likely to achieve long-term sinus rhythm. In the majority of patients, recurrence was due to non-PV triggers and ablation of those resulted in better outcome.

Novel Ablation Strategy for Isolating the Superior Vena Cava Using Ultra High-Resolution Mapping.

The aim of this study was to categorize the conduction patterns between the right atrium (RA) and the superior vena cava (SVC), and to determine the ideal procedure for SVC isolation using a novel high-resolution mapping system.Methods and Results:RA-SVC conduction was evaluated using the RHYTHMIA system in 113 patients (age 62.8±11.5 years, paroxysmal: 67) with atrial fibrillation (AF) after pulmonary vein (PV) isolation. In 56 patients, a line of conduction block was found to run obliquely just above the sinus node (Block group). The remaining 57 patients did not have block (Non-block group). Non-PV foci were spontaneous or provoked with isoproterenol after electrical cardioversion of pacing-induced AF. In 43 patients with SVC foci (Block group: 22, Non-Block group: 21), SVC was isolated by radiofrequency applications delivered along the line connecting the open ends of the block line (Block group) or by conventional methods (Non-block group). The Block group required fewer radiofrequency deliveries for SVC isolation than the Non-Block group (4.2±0.9 vs. 10.2±2.8 times; P<0.0001). The isolated SVC area was larger in the Block group (15.7±3.7 vs. 10.5±3.1 cm2; P<0.0001). We found that approximately half of patients with AF had a diagonal line of block at the RA-SVC junction that could be utilized to isolate the SVC with fewer radiofrequency deliveries.

Electrical isolation of the superior vena cava by laser balloon ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation.

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the feasibility and safety of SVC electrical isolation by LB ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) referred for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Electrical disconnection of the SVC was attempted by LB in 13 consecutive patients (59 ± 10.5years, 11 male) with AF following PVI. PVI was successfully achieved by standard LB in all before attempting SVC isolation. A laser beam was delivered with 6.3 ± 2.3W and 8.4 ± 2.7W (P = 0.001) during 5.38 ± 2.4min and 9.75 ± 1.6min (P = 0.024) to achieve SVC and PV, respectively. Isolation of the SVC by LB was accomplished in 8 patients (61%) without complications. Phrenic nerve palsy developed in 3 patients (23%), which resulted in early procedure termination before isolation. Technical problems or interposition of a pacemaker lead to prevented SVC isolation in the remaining 2 patients. After a mean follow-up of 19 ± 3months, no patient recovered from phrenic nerve palsy. SVC isolation by LB is feasible but associated with a high risk of phrenic nerve palsy. Limitation of laser delivery time and power appears insufficient to prevent this complication.

Strict sequential catheter ablation strategy targeting the pulmonary veins and superior vena cava for persistent atrial fibrillation

BackgroundAn effective catheter ablation strategy, beyond pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) is necessary. Pulmonary vein (PV)-reconduction also causes recurrent atrial tachyarrhythmias. The effect of the PVI and additional effect of a superior vena cava (SVC) isolation (SVCI) was strictly evaluated. MethodsSeventy consecutive patients with persistent AF who underwent a strict sequential ablation strategy targeting the PVs and SVC were included in this study. The initial ablation strategy was a circumferential PVI. A segmental SVCI was only applied as a repeat procedure when patients demonstrated no PV-reconduction. ResultsAfter the initial procedure, persistent AF was suppressed in 39 of 70 (55.7%) patients during a median follow-up of 32 months. After multiple procedures, persistent AF was suppressed in 46 (65.7%) and 52 (74.3%) patients after receiving the PVI alone and PVI plus SVCI strategies, respectively. In 6 of 15 (40.0%) patients with persistent AF resistant to PVI, persistent AF was suppressed. The persistent AF duration independently predicted persistent AF recurrences after multiple PVI alone procedures [HR: 1.012 (95% confidence interval: 1.006–1.018); p<0.001] and PVI plus SVCI strategies [HR: 1.018 (95% confidence interval: 1.011–1.025); p<0.001]. A receiver-operating-characteristic analysis for recurrent persistent AF indicated an optimal cut-off value of 20 and 32 months for the persistent AF duration using the PVI alone and PVI plus SVCI strategies, respectively. ConclusionsThe outcomes of the PVI plus SVCI strategy were favorable for patients with shorter persistent AF durations. The initial SVCI had the additional effect of maintaining sinus rhythm in some patients with persistent AF resistant to PVI.

Electrophysiological characteristics and catheter ablation of symptomatic focal premature atrial contractions originating from pulmonary veins and non-pulmonary veins.

We aimed to explore electrophysiological characteristics of premature atrial contractions (PACs) originating from pulmonary veins (PVs) and non-PVs and to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of catheter ablation for PACs. Symptomatic PACs originated from different positions and whether could be ablated. Symptomatic, frequent, and drug-refractory PAC patients were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent electrophysiological study and catheter ablation. A total of 81 patients were enrolled: 45 patients with PACs originating from PVs (group A), 24 patients with PACs originating from non-PVs (group B), and 12 patients with PACs arising from both PVs and non-PVs (group C). Twenty (44.4%) patients in group A, 6 (50.0%) patients in group C, and 3 (12.5%) patients in group B presented paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (P < 0.05). PV isolation was performed in groups A and C. Focal ablation or superior vena cava isolation was performed in groups B and C, depending on patient condition. PACs were abolished in all patients except one patient in group B. During a median follow-up period of 21.3 ± 14.3 months, 40 (88.9%) patients in group A, 10 (83.3%) patients in group C, and 21 (87.5%) patients in group B were free of recurrence after initial ablation. Frequent PACs originating from PVs were associated with increased incidence of atrial fibrillation compared with PACs originating from non-PVs. Catheter ablation yields a satisfactory success rate and could be a good choice for eliminating symptomatic, frequent, and drug-refractory PACs.