Long-standing Atrial Fibrillation Research Articles

Isolated right-sided pericardial effusion following hybrid ablation for long-standing atrial fibrillation.

Isolated right-sided pericardial effusion following hybrid ablation for long-standing atrial fibrillation.

Robotic-enhanced hybrid ablation for persistent and long-standing atrial fibrillation: Early assessment of feasibility, safety, and efficacy

ObjectivesTo assess feasibility, safety, and early efficacy of robotic-enhanced epicardial ablation (RE-EA) as first stage of a hybrid approach to patients with persistent (PsAF) and long-standing atrial fibrillation (LSAF). MethodsSingle-center, retrospective analysis of patients with documented PsAF and LSAF who underwent RE-EA followed by catheter-guided endocardial ablation. Postoperatively, patients were monitored for major adverse events and underwent rhythm follow-up at 3 and 12 months. ResultsBetween January 2021 and June 2023, we performed RE-EA in 64 patients (73.5% male, CHA2DS2-VASc 2.7 ± 1.6, BMI 34.1 ± 6.3 kg/m2). Mean AF preoperative duration and left atrial volume index were, respectively, 85 months and 47.5 mL/m2. Through the robotic approach, the intended lesion set was completed in all patients without cardiopulmonary bypass support, conversion to thoracotomy/sternotomy, blood transfusions, or perioperative mortality. The average LOS was 1.7 days, with only 1 patient requiring intensive care unit admission and >65% of patients discharged within 24 hours. At follow-up, 2 (3.1%) patients experienced new left pleural effusion or hemidiaphragm paralysis requiring treatment. There were no readmissions related to AF, stroke, thromboembolic events, or deaths. The mean interval between the epicardial and endocardial stages of the procedure was 5.9 months. Rhythm follow-up showed AF resolution in 73.4% and 71.9% of patients at 3 and 12 months, respectively. ConclusionsRE-EA is a feasible and safe, first-stage approach for the treatment of patients with PsAF and LSAF. It improves exposure of the intended targets, favors short hospital stay, and facilitates return to activity with satisfactory AF treatment in the short term.

Duration of atrial fibrillation persistence: Implications for recurrence risk after catheter ablation and efficacy of additional substrate ablation

BackgroundThe optimal duration of atrial fibrillation (AF) persistence for predicting poor outcomes after catheter ablation of long-standing AF (LsAF) and the best ablation strategy for these patients remain unclear. ObjectiveWe aimed to assess the impact of the duration of AF persistence on outcomes after catheter ablation of AF. MethodsWe analyzed the Efficacy of Pulmonary Vein Isolation Alone in Patients with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation (EARNEST-PVI) trial data comparing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) alone (PVI-alone) with additional linear ablation or defragmentation (PVI-plus) in persistent AF (PerAF). Patients who received catheter ablation by contact force–sensing catheter were enrolled in the study. In patients with LsAF, the optimal cutoff duration of AF persistence was evaluated. With use of the threshold, patients with LsAF were divided into 2 groups and compared with PerAF <1 year for arrhythmia-free survival after a 3-month blanking period. ResultsThe optimal cutoff duration was 2.4 years. Of 458 patients, arrhythmia-free survival rates for LsAF 1–2.4 years were comparable to those of PerAF (hazard ratio [HR], 1.01; 95% CI, 0.67–1.52). However, LsAF >2.4 years had a higher recurrence risk than PerAF (HR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.42–3.47). In LsAF >2.4 years, the PVI-plus strategy showed advantages over the PVI-alone strategy (HR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.14–0.89). However, the interaction effect between LsAF 1–2.4 years and LsAF >2.4 years did not reach statistical significance (P = .116). ConclusionWhereas LsAF 1–2.4 years has similar outcomes to those of PerAF, LsAF >2.4 years was linked to higher arrhythmia recurrence risks. For LsAF >2.4 years, the PVI-plus strategy showed a potential to be superior to the PVI-alone strategy.

Predicting worsening heart failure hospitalizations in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators: is it all about alerts? A pooled analysis of nine trials.

To predict worsening heart failure hospitalizations (WHFHs) in patients with implantable defibrillators and remote monitoring, the HeartInsight algorithm (Biotronik, Berlin, Germany) calculates a heart failure (HF) score combining seven physiologic parameters: 24 h heart rate (HR), nocturnal HR, HR variability, atrial tachyarrhythmia, ventricular extrasystoles, patient activity, and thoracic impedance. We compared temporal trends of the HF score and its components 12 weeks before a WHFH with 12-week trends in patients without WHFH, to assess whether trends indicate deteriorating HF regardless of alert status. Data from nine clinical trials were pooled, including 2050 patients with a defibrillator capable of atrial sensing, ejection fraction ≤ 35%, NYHA class II/III, no long-standing atrial fibrillation, and 369 WHFH from 259 patients. The mean HF score was higher in the WHFH group than in the no WHFH group (42.3 ± 26.1 vs. 30.7 ± 20.6, P < 0.001) already at the beginning of 12 weeks. The mean HF score further increased to 51.6 ± 26.8 until WHFH (+22% vs. no WHFH group, P = 0.003). As compared to the no WHFH group, the algorithm components either were already higher 12 weeks before WHFH (24 h HR, HR variability, thoracic impedance) or significantly increased until WHFH (nocturnal HR, atrial tachyarrhythmia, ventricular extrasystoles, patient activity). The HF score was significantly higher at, and further increased during 12 weeks before WHFH, as compared to the no WHFH group, with seven components showing different behaviour and contribution. Temporal trends of HF score may serve as a quantitative estimate of HF condition and evolution prior to WHFH.

The role of cellular senescence in profibrillatory atrial remodelling associated with cardiac pathology.

Cellular senescence is a stress-related or aging response believed to contribute to many cardiac conditions; however, its role in atrial fibrillation (AF) is unknown. Age is the single most important determinant of the risk of AF. The present study was designed to (i) evaluate AF susceptibility and senescence marker expression in rat models of aging and myocardial infarction (MI), (ii) study the effect of reducing senescent-cell burden with senolytic therapy on the atrial substrate in MI rats, and (iii) assess senescence markers in human atrial tissue as a function of age and the presence of AF. AF susceptibility was studied with programmed electrical stimulation. Gene and protein expression was evaluated by immunoblot or immunofluorescence (protein) and digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (messenger RNA). A previously validated senolytic combination, dasatinib and quercetin, (D+Q; or corresponding vehicle) was administered from the time of sham or MI surgery through 28 days later. Experiments were performed blinded to treatment assignment. Burst pacing-induced AF was seen in 100% of aged (18-month old) rats, 87.5% of young MI rats, and 10% of young control (3-month old) rats (P ≤ 0.001 vs. each). Conduction velocity was slower in aged [both left atrium (LA) and right atrium (RA)] and young MI (LA) rats vs. young control rats (P ≤ 0.001 vs. each). Atrial fibrosis was greater in aged (LA and RA) and young MI (LA) vs. young control rats (P < 0.05 for each). Senolytic therapy reduced AF inducibility in MI rats (from 8/9 rats, 89% in MI vehicle, to 0/9 rats, 0% in MI D + Q, P < 0.001) and attenuated LA fibrosis. Double staining suggested that D + Q acts by clearing senescent myofibroblasts and endothelial cells. In human atria, senescence markers were upregulated in older (≥70 years) and long-standing AF patients vs. individuals ≤60 and sinus rhythm controls, respectively. Our results point to a potentially significant role of cellular senescence in AF pathophysiology. Modulating cell senescence might provide a basis for novel therapeutic approaches to AF.

In patients with atrial cardiomyopathy long-lasting atrial fibrillation is associated with unfavorable structural changes in right chambers and worse outcome

Abstract Background The main factor responsible for atrial cardiomyopathy (ACM) is atrial fibrillation (AF). It is known that AF causes remodeling of the left atrium but its effects on the right heart chambers and mortality are not well studied. Purpose To assess the echocardiographic characteristics of patients with atrial cardiomyopathy with long-standing and paroxysmal AF and their impact on survival. Methods From 624 consecutive patients with AF only 173 met the inclusion criteria for atrial cardiomyopathy, defined as severely dilated left atrium with indexed left atrial volume (LAVI) &amp;gt;48 ml/m2, preserved left ventricular systolic function, without significant valvular disease or left ventricular hypertrophy. The mean age of the studied population was 73,7 ± 9,5 years, 59% women. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of persistent or permanent AF (long-standing AF) - Group 1 (n = 87) or paroxysmal AF - Group 2 (n = 86). All patients underwent a comprehensive echocardiography with volumetric and speckle tracking analysis on enrollment and were followed for cardiovascular outcomes, including mortality 24 months. Results The group with long-standing AF had more dilated right atrium (indexed right atrial volume- RAVI 41.9 ± 24.4 vs. 33 ± 13.5 ml/m2; P=0.003), lower reservoir strain of the right atrium (13.1% ± 8.6 vs. 19.7% ± 10.6; P&amp;lt;0.001) and lower right ventricular free wall strain (18.1% ±7.3 vs. 21.2% ± 7.1; P=0.006). Over a median follow up of 18 months (7-29) 16 patients (18%) from Group 1 died compared to 6 patients (7%) from Group 2 (P=0.022). The presence of more than mild tricuspid regurgitation (OR 4.53; CI: 2.37-8.67; P&amp;lt;0.001), heart failure (OR 3.44; 95% CI: 1.83-6.48; P&amp;lt;0.001), and long-standing AF (OR 3.00, 95% CI: 1.41-8.09; P=0.028) were associated with worse mid-term survival. Conclusion Patients with ACM and long-standing AF have more advanced structural changes of the right atrium and the right ventricle and worse prognosis. The presence of more than mild tricuspid regurgitation, heart failure, and long-standing AF are predictors of poor outcome.

Optimal cutoff duration of history or persistence of atrial fibrillation to undergo radiofrequency catheter ablation of longstanding atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background The limitations of catheter ablation for longstanding atrial fibrillation (LsAF) are beginning to emerge and appropriate patient selection are needed. It is well known that the longer the duration of atrial fibrillation (AF), the less likely it is to be cured by catheter ablation. Purpose To identify the optimal cutoff duration of AF to predict outcomes after catheter ablation in patients with LsAF in the contact force sensing catheter (CF) era. Methods From the EARNEST-PVI (Effect of Extensive Ablation on Recurrence in Patients with Persistent AF Treated with Pulmonary Vein Isolation) trial, which was a prospective, multicenter, randomized, open-label trial, comparing the pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) alone and PVI plus additional substrate ablation, factors associated with arrhythmia-free survival after a 3-month blank period were evaluated in patients with LsAF. Results Among 124 patients, CF was used in 114 (92%). Duration of AF history and persistence were related to recurrences. Other factors, including age, gender, left atrial diameter, chronic kidney disease and substrate ablation, were not related to recurrences (Table). Receiver operating characteristic analysis detected suitable cutoff duration of AF history and AD persistence as both 2.4 years (area under curve; 0.654 and 0.609, respectively)). The arrhythmia-free survival was significantly better in patients with AF history ≤ 2.4 years than the others (p=0.001, HR 2.69, 95% CI: 1.47-4.89) and better in patients with AF persistence ≤ 2.4 years than the others (p=0.008, HR 2.04, 95% CI: 1.19-3.48) (Figure). Conclusion Duration of AF history or persistence ≤ 2.4 years were suitable to undergo radiofrequency ablation of LsAF.TableFigure

Totally Thoracoscopic Ablation in Patients With Recurrent Atrial Fibrillation After Catheter Ablation.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of totally thoracoscopic ablation (TTA) in patients with recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) after radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA). From February 2012 to May 2020, 460 patients who underwent TTA were classified into two groups: CA (presence of RFCA history, n = 74) and nCA groups (absence of RFCA history, n = 386). Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analyses were used to adjust for confounders. The primary endpoint was freedom from the composite of AF, typical atrial flutter, atypical atrial flutter and any atrial tachyarrhythmia, lasting more than 30 seconds during the follow-up. All patients were followed up at 3, 6, and 12 months via electrocardiogram and 24-hour Holter monitoring. Bilateral pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) was conducted in all patients and the conduction block tests were confirmed. In the CA group, difficult PVI occasionally occurred due to structural changes, such as pericardial adhesion and fibrosis of the pulmonary venous structure, caused by a previous catheter ablation. Early complications such as stroke and pacemaker insertion were not different between the two groups. The normal sinus rhythm was maintained in 70.1% (317/460) patients after a median follow-up period of 38.1 months. The IPTW-weighted Kaplan-Meier curves revealed that freedom from AF events at 5 years was 68.4% (95% confidence interval, 62.8-74.5) in the nCA group and 31.2% (95% confidence interval, 16.9-57.5) in the CA group (P < 0.001). In IPTW-weighted Cox regression, preoperative left atrial diameter, persistent or long-standing AF, the presence of congestive heart failure and catheter ablation history were associated with AF events. Patients in the CA group showed a higher recurrence rate of AF than those in the nCA group, while TTA was safely performed in both the groups.

Evaluation of left atrial strain imaging and integrated backscatter as predictors of recurrence in patients with paroxysmal, persistent, and long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation undergoing catheter ablation.

Impaired left atrial (LA) strain predicts atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after catheter ablation (CA), but currently there is no cut-off to guide patient selection for CA. Integrated backscatter (IBS) is a promising tool for noninvasive quantification of myocardial fibrosis. The aim of this study was to compare LA strain and IBS between paroxysmal, persistent, and long-standing persistent AF and evaluate their association with AF recurrence after CA. Analysis of consecutive patients with symptomatic paroxysmal and persistent AF who underwent CA. LA phasic strain, strain rate and IBS were assessed by two-dimensional speckle-tracking at baseline. We analyzed 78 patients, 31% with persistent AF (46% long-standing AF), 65% male, mean age 59 ± 14years, who underwent CA and were followed-up for 12months. AF recurrence occurred in 22 (28%) patients. LA phasic strain parameters were significantly impaired in patients with AF recurrence and were independent predictors of AF recurrence in a multivariable analysis. LA reservoir strain (LASr) < 18% predicted AF recurrence with 86% sensitivity and 71% specificity, with a higher predictive power compared to LA volume index (LAVI). LASr < 22% in paroxysmal AF and LASr < 12% in persistent AF correlated with AF recurrence. Increased IBS was a predictor of AF recurrence in patients with paroxysmal AF. LA phasic strain parameters were predictors of AF recurrence after CA, independently of LAVI and AF subtype. LASr < 18% showed a higher predictive power compared to LAVI. Further studies are needed to investigate the role of IBS as a predictor of AF recurrence.

Pulsed field ablation for all types of atrial fibrillation single centre experience with individualized approach and medium-term outcome

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a promising method to reduce procedure time and improve ablation safety and efficacy in all types of atrial fibrillation (AF). Purpose To present ablation approach and medium-term outcomes of PFA in all AF types. Methods Between 9/2021-10/2022, PFA using Farawave catheter was performed in 250 patients (63±11 years, 65 females). Patients with paroxysmal AF were basically scheduled for simple pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) (Farawave, ICE), patients with longstanding AF (LSPAF) underwent complex left atrial (LA) PFA (Farawave, CS 10-pole catheter, ICE); ablation extent varied in persistent AF. Results Paroxysmal AF (n=131; 115 ablated in SR), persistent AF (n=39; 11 ablated in SR), and LSPAF (n=64) were ablated with procedure times 58±20, 105±28, and 116±32 minutes, respectively, and fluoroscopy times 9±5, 14±7, and 17±7 minutes, respectively. Additional 16 patients underwent PFA for atrial tachycardia (AT). Ongoing AF was terminated by PFA in 13/16 (81%), 16/28 (57%), and 23/64 (36%) patients with paroxysmal AF, persistent AF, and LSPAF, respectively. In groups of paroxysmal AF ablated in SR, paroxysmal AF ablated in AF, persistent AF ablated in SR, persistent AF, and LSPAF, simple PVI was performed in 100%, 50%, 73%, 11%, and 0 patients respectively; and freedom from AF/AT was present in 86/99 (87%), 11/14 (79%), 7/10 (70%), 11/12 (92%), and 40/52 (77%) patients, respectively, of total 187 patients with follow-up ≥3 months (≥6 months in 139 patients). In 8 patients with repeat ablation post-PFA for paroxysmal AF (n=4), persistent AF (n=2), LSPAF (n=2), extra-PV AF/AT sources dominated in all groups. Complications included one tamponade with pericardiocentesis, and prolonged ST elevation with negative coronary angiography. Conclusion PFA using Farawave catheter was associated with reduced procedure times and favourable medium-term outcome for all AF types. Early experience specifically suggests improved outcome after extensive LA ablation for persistent AF/LSPAF.

Thoracoscopic Surgical Ablation of Lone Atrial Fibrillation: Long-term Outcomes at 7 Years

BackgroundAntiarrhythmic drugs and transcatheter ablation in atrial fibrillation (AF) provide suboptimal rhythm control with a not negligible rate of failure in paroxysmal AF (PAF) and nonparoxysmal AF (n-PAF) at midterm and long-term follow-up. This study evaluated the safety profile and long-term efficacy of thoracoscopic ablation in patients with lone AF. MethodsA consecutive 153 patients with lone AF were prospectively enrolled and underwent thoracoscopic surgical ablation. Inclusion criteria were symptomatic AF refractory to pharmacologic therapy (Vaughan-Williams class I-III), age >18 years, and absence of left atrial thrombosis. Exclusion criteria were long-standing AF >5 years, left atrial diameter >55 mm, and contraindication to oral anticoagulation. The “box lesion set” (encircling of pulmonary veins) was always used. Exclusion of the left atrial appendage was performed only in selected cases. The primary study end point was freedom from AF. Secondary end points were overall survival and cumulative incidence function of cardiac event–related death, cerebrovascular accidents, and pacemaker implantation. ResultsThere was no in-hospital mortality. Early postoperative complications were pacemaker implantation (4/153 [2.6%]), cerebrovascular accident (2/153 [1.3%]) with full recovery of both, and bleeding requiring surgical revision (2/153 [1.3%]). Overall freedom from AF at 7 years was 86% ± 4% (76.9% in n-PAF, 96.1% in PAF). Survival freedom from AF in patients without antiarrhythmic drugs in PAF and n-PAF groups was 79.1% and 52.2%, respectively. ConclusionsThoracoscopic surgical ablation of lone AF by means of an isolated left atrial box lesion provided an excellent long-term rhythm outcome, even in long-standing persistent AF. The isolated left atrial ablation showed an excellent safety profile with low incidence of pacemaker implantation and postoperative complications.

Left atrial appendage exclusion using a stapler with thoracoscopic ablation of atrial fibrillation

Highlights. Stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation is extremely important and difficult. Lifelong anticoagulant therapy is not always an effective way of preventing thrombosis in the left atrial appendage in this group of patients. In this regard, one of the most urgent problems of modern surgical arrhythmology and cardiac surgery is the search for new open and minimally invasive surgical methods of excluding the left atrial appendage from the blood flow.Aim. To investigate the safety and efficacy of using the left atrial appendage stapler for video-guided thoracoscopic ablation (TSA) of non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF).Methods. The retrospective, single-center study included 100 patients with non-valvular AF who underwent video-guided thoracoscopic ablation of AF with single-stage left atrial appendage exclusion using an Endo GIA stapler (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA).Results. The mean age of the patients was 56,2±8,8 years, the majority of the patients (73 patients, 73%) were male. Patients with persistent 50 (50%) AF and longstanding AF 50 (50%) were included in the study. The duration of atrial fibrillation was 4 (1,7–7) years. The median CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores were 2 (1–1,5) and 1 (0-1), respectively. The mean anticoagulation therapy-to-ablation time was 4,2±1,9 years. Thirty-eight (38%) patients were prescribed warfarin preoperatively. The completeness of left atrial appendage (LAA) exclusion was confirmed by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography. The average length of the staple lines was 48 (35–75). A single left atrial appendage exclusion was performed using a 60 mm staples. In 12 (12%) patients, stapler exclusions were performed using two 45 mm staples due to insufficient staple length. None of the patients had ruptures, punctures along the staple lines or rupture of the surrounding epicardial tissue. Anticoagulant therapy was discontinued 6 months after TSA in 70 (70%) patients with sustained sinus rhythm observed on 24-h Holter Monitoring, satisfactory CHA2DS2-VASc scores and after confirmation of absence of left atrial thrombus by transesophageal echocardiography and contrast-enhanced MSCT. No strokes were reported within 1,2±0,7 years after discontinuing anticoagulation therapy.Conclusion. Exclusion of LAA using a stapler for TSA is a highly effective and safe technique for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation compared to alternative methods of excluding the LAA from the systemic blood flow.

Very long term outcomes of atrial fibrillation ablation

Little is known about the very long term durability of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate very long term AF ablation outcomes. We followed 5200 patients undergoing 7145 ablation procedures. We evaluated outcomes after single and multiple ablation procedures for paroxysmal (PAF; 33.6%), persistent (PeAF; 56.4%), and long-standing (LsAF; 9.9%) AF. We compared 3 ablation eras by initial ablation catheter: early (101 patients) using solid big tip (SBT) catheters (October 2003 to December 2005), intermediate (2143 patients) using open irrigated tip (OIT) catheters (December 2005 to August 2016), and contemporary (2956 patients) using contact force (CF) catheters (March 2014 to December 2021). AF freedom at 5, 10, and 15 years was as follows: initial ablation: PAF 67.8%, 56.3%, 47.6%; PeAF 46.6%, 35.6%, 26.5%; and LsAF 30.4%, 18.0%, 3.4%; final ablation: PAF 80.3%, 72.6%, 62.5%; PeAF 60.1%, 50.2%, 42.5%; and LsAF 43.4%, 32.0%, 20.6%. For PAF and PeAF, CF ablation procedures were better than OIT ablation procedures (P < .0001) and both were better than SBT ablation procedures (P < .001). LsAF had no outcome improvement over the eras. The 8-year success rate after final ablation for CF, OIT, and SBT catheter eras was as follows: PAF 79.1%, 71.8%, 60.0%; PeAF 55.9%, 50.7%, 38.0%; and LsAF 42.7%, 36.2%, 31.8%. Highest AF recurrence was in the first 2 years, with a 2- to 15-year recurrence of 2%/yr. Success predictors after initial and final ablation procedures were younger age, smaller left atrium, shorter AF duration, male sex, less persistent AF, lower CHA2DS2-VASc score, fewer drugs failed, and more recent catheter era. After year 2, there is 2%/yr recurrence rate for all AF types. Ablation success is best in the CF catheter era, intermediate in the OIT era, and worst in the SBT era. Over the ablation eras, outcomes improved for PAF and PeAF but not for LsAF. We should follow patients indefinitely after ablation. We need an understanding of how to better ablate more persistent AF.

Resting membrane potential is less negative in trabeculae from right atrial appendages of women, but action potential duration does not shorten with age

AimsThe incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) increases with age. Women have a lower risk. Little is known on the impact of age, sex and clinical variables on action potentials (AP) recorded in right atrial tissue obtained during open heart surgery from patients in sinus rhythm (SR) and in longstanding AF. We here investigated whether age or sex have an impact on the shape of AP recorded in vitro from right atrial tissue. MethodsWe performed multivariable analysis of individual AP data from trabeculae obtained during heart surgery of patients in SR (n = 320) or in longstanding AF (n = 201). AP were recorded by sharp microelectrodes at 37 °C at 1 Hz. Impact of clinical variables were modeled using a multivariable mixed model regression. ResultsIn SR, AP duration at 90% repolarization (APD90) increased with age. Lower ejection fraction and higher body mass index were associated with smaller action potential amplitude (APA) and maximum upstroke velocity (Vmax). The use of beta-blockers was associated with larger APD90. In tissues from women, resting membrane potential was less negative and APA as well as Vmax were smaller. Besides shorter APD20 in elderly patients, effects of age and sex on atrial AP were lost in AF. ConclusionThe higher probability to develop AF at advanced age cannot be explained by a shortening in APD90. Less negative RMP and lower upstroke velocity might contribute to lower incidence of AF in women, which may be of clinical relevance.

Right atrial appendage firing in atrial fibrillation.

The role of atrial fibrillation (AF) drivers located at the left atrium, superior vena cava, crista terminalis and coronary sinus (CS) is well established. While these regions are classically targeted during catheter ablation, the role of right atrial appendage (RAA) drivers has been incompletely investigated. To determine the prevalence and electrophysiological characteristics of AF driver's arising from the RAA. We conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical and procedural data of 317 consecutive patients who underwent an AF ablation procedure after bi-atrial mapping (multipolar catheter). We selected patients who presented with a per-procedural RAA firing (RAAF). RAAF was defined as the recording of a sustained RAA EGM with a cycle length shorter than 120 ms or 120 < RAAF CL ≤ 130 ms and ratio RAA CL/CS CL ≤ 0.75. Right atrial/atrium appendage firing was found in 22 patients. The prevalence was estimated at 7% (95% CI, 4-10). These patients were mostly men (72%), median age: 66 yo ± 8 without structural heart disease (77%). RAAFs were predominantly found in paroxysmal AF patients (63%, 32%, and 5% for paroxysmal, short standing and long-standing AF, respectively, p > 0.05). RAAF median cycle length was 117 ms ± 7 while CS cycle length was 180 ms ± 10 (p < 0.01). In 317 consecutive AF ablation patients (22 patients, 7%) the presence of a high-voltage short-cycle-length right atrial appendage driver (RAAF) may conclusively be associated with AF termination. This case series exemplifies the not-so-uncommon role of the RAA in the perpetuation of AF.

Patch augmentation vs. valve replacement for patients with atrial functional mitral regurgitation and long-standing atrial fibrillation.

Long-standing atrial fibrillation is associated with atrial functional mitral regurgitation (AFMR) with atriogenic tethering. We compared the outcomes of patch augmentation (PA) and valve replacement (VR) for AFMR. We retrospectively compared the data of 16 patients who underwent PA for AFMR with the data of 15 patients who underwent VR between 2008 and 2021. Patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of <50% were excluded. We also performed atrial plication and left appendage closure if the patients had no weak atrial wall that led to severe bleeding. The median age was 72.5 and 76.0 years in the PA and VR groups, respectively. The PA group had a longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (206 vs. 172 min, P=0.012). Although there were no differences in hospital morbidity and mortality between the PA and VR groups, one patient underwent reoperation for patch perforation in the PA group. The overall 3-year survival rate was 93.8% and 100% in the PA and VR groups, respectively (P=0.878). The 3-year rate of freedom from major adverse cardiac events was 75.0% and 53.6% in the PA and VR groups, respectively (P=0.181). Three and six patients were readmitted for congestive heart failure in the PA and VR groups, respectively. Two patients in the PA group developed severe recurrent regurgitation, including one patient who required reoperation. No patients in the VR group required reoperation. The postoperative left atrial volume index (LAVI) was associated with thromboembolic events (P=0.016). PA may achieve comparable outcomes to those of VR for AFMR. Operative procedures should be chosen based on each patient's background. Atrial reduction could be considered to prevent thromboembolic events.

Thoracoscopic epicardial ablation of atrial fibrillation: Safety, efficacy, single center experience.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with reduced quality of life and increased risk of ischaemic cerebrovascular events. The left atrial epicardial ablation procedures have evolved towards a successful and safe rhythm control strategy for patients with symptomatic drug-refractory paroxysmal, persistent or post-ablation AF or with a high risk of catheter ablation failure. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of thoracoscopic ablation at our instituiton. We observed 81 patients undergoing thoracoscopic ablation from January 2015 to December 2019. The mean age was 61.3±8.5 years and the average duration of AF was 3.1±2.6 years. The cohort consisted of 16.5% of paroxysmal AF, 36.7% persistent, and 46.8% of long-standing AF. The procedure was completed in 79 patients; during follow-up, 15 patients (19%) received radiofrequency ablation. Freedom from atrial arrhythmia recurrence was 55.7% after a follow-up (FUP) period of 3.1 ± 1.4 years. At the follow-up visit, sinus rhythm was present in 81% of patients. No relationships between arrhythmia recurrence and BMI, LVEF, left atrial dimension, gender, and AF duration were found. Major complications were noticed in 4 patients (5.0%); 2 had peripheral embolisation, 2 patients were converted to a sternotomy. At the time of the FUP visit, 25.3% of patients were using antiarrhythmic and 74.7% were still using anticoagulants. In the majority of patients, sinus rhythm remained despite a considerable atrial tachycardia recurrence rate, with a relatively low percentage of patients on antiarrythmic drugs.

Pseudo-Conduction in the Mitral Isthmus After Ablation.

A 56-year-old patient with a history of hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and long-standing atrial fibrillation underwent pulmonary vein isolation, endocardial mitral line ablation, and alcohol ablation of the vein of Marshall in 2018. He complained of palpitation due to recurrent atrial flutter, which was poorly controlled by amiodarone. Therefore, catheter ablation was arranged. Pre-ablation echocardiography showed normal left ventricular ejection fraction and computed tomography demonstrated an enlarged coronary sinus (CS).

Capability of guideline-conform remote atrial high rate episode monitoring with a single-chamber implantable defibrillator with atrial sensing

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): BIOTRONIK, Berlin, Germany Introduction Device-detected atrial high-rate episodes (AHRE) and their burden progression are associated with an increased risk for thromboembolic events in correlation with CHA2DS2-VASc score and AHRE burden. To allow timely initiation of anticoagulation therapy for the prevention of stroke, the European guidelines on atrial fibrillation (AF) recommend the monitoring of AHRE progression along pre-specified strata (6min…&amp;lt;1h, 1h…&amp;lt;24, ≥24h). We sought to assess the capability of a single-lead implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), that is equipped with an atrial dipole for atrial sensing, to remotely detect and monitor AHRE burden progression in patients with standard indication to single-chamber ICD. Methods From the MATRIX (Management and Detection of Atrial Tachyarrhythmias in Patients Implanted With BIOTRONIK DX Systems) registry, we analyzed remotely transmitted, and electrogram (IEGM) AHREs in a subset of patients with remote transmissions and without history of long-standing AF at baseline. For each patient, we selected the first occurring episode per duration stratum and the first subsequent occurrence when progressing to a stratum of any longer duration. After episode adjudication by an independent electrophysiologist, we assessed the classification performance of the device (positive predictive value [PPV]) and analyzed AHRE onset and progression pathways. Results Of the MATRIX cohort, 1,746 patients matched the inclusions criteria (see table for patient characteristics) and 1,451 had no AF history. Of the 258 patients with AHREs (14.8%), 450 out of 465 evaluated episodes were correctly classified as AHRE. Reasons for misclassification were artifact (13) and R-wave oversensing (2). PPV was 96.8% (95% confidence interval 94.7%-98.2%). Grouped by stratum, PPV was 93.9%, 99.5% and 100% for 6min…&amp;lt;1h, 1h…&amp;lt;24 and ≥24h, respectively. Ninety six of 240 patients (40.0%) with a first episode according to the pre-specified strata were progressing to a stratum of longer duration and 9 patients (3.8%) had further progression (see Figure). In 119 out of 1,451 patients without AF history (8.2%), the device detected AHRE and 81 of them (4.6% of analysis set) had a mid to high risk for stroke and were not on anticoagulation therapy. In 121 out of 295 patients with known history of paroxysmal and persistent AF (41.0%), the arrhythmia was confirmed by the device. Discussion and Conclusion: The single-chamber ICD with atrial sensing capabilities correctly classified ≈97% of all adjudicated AHREs ≥6min. About 7% of patients had device-detected AHRE onset and/or progression and a mid to high stroke risk. These patients would potentially benefit the most from a guideline-conform AF monitoring strategy to timely initiate anticoagulation medication for stroke prevention.

Long-term outcome of patients with long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation undergoing ablation guided by a novel high-density panoramic mapping system: A propensity score matching study.

BackgroundCatheter ablation is a current therapeutic approach for atrial fibrillation (AF). However, its efficacy for long-standing persistent AF remains suboptimal.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that a panoramic mapping system (CARTOFINDER, Biosense Webster) can guide pulmonary vein (PV) isolation and additional potential AF drivers.MethodsA total of 76 patients with nonparoxysmal AF referred for ablation guided by a novel high-density panoramic mapping system with CARTOFINDER were prospectively enrolled. Of this cohort, 40 patients (52.6%) had long-standing persistent AF (CARTOFINDER group). We then retrospectively screened the patients with long-standing persistent AF undergoing conventional PV isolation and elimination of non-PV triggers during the contemporary period (conventional group). They were matched at a 1:2 ratio (40 patients in group 1 received ablation guided by CARTOFINDER; 80 patients in group 2 receiving conventional PV isolation and elimination of non-PV triggers).ResultsDuring follow-up, patients in group 1 had a lower recurrence AF rate than those in group 2 (P = .040). There was no difference in recurrence of atrial flutter (P = .996) and atrial tachycardia (P = .525). In Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, AF duration and PV isolation along with AF driver ablation using a panoramic mapping system with CARTOFINDER both were independent predictors of recurrent AF after catheter ablation of long-standing persistent AF.ConclusionIdentification of the potential drivers in long-standing AF is crucial. Compared with conventional PV isolation and elimination of non-PV triggers, ablation guided by a high-density panoramic mapping system (CARTOFINDER) might have a better outcome in patients with long-standing persistent AF.