Longer Atrial Fibrillation Duration Research Articles

Exosomal miRNA Changes Associated with Restoration to Sinus Rhythm in Atrial Fibrillation Patients.

We aimed to identify serum exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with the transition from atrial fibrillation (AF) to sinus rhythm (SR) and investigate their potential as biomarkers for the early recurrence of AF within three months post-treatment. We collected blood samples from eight AF patients at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan both immediately before and within 14 days following rhythm control treatment. Exosomes were isolated from these samples, and small RNA sequencing was performed. Using DESeq2 analysis, we identified nine miRNAs (16-2-3p, 22-3p, 23a-3p, 23b-3p, 125a-5p, 328-3p, 423-5p, 504-5p, and 582-3p) associated with restoration to SR. Further analysis using the DIABLO model revealed a correlation between the decreased expression of miR-125a-5p and miR-328-3p and the early recurrence of AF. Furthermore, early recurrence is associated with a longer duration of AF, presumably indicating a more extensive state of underlying cardiac remodeling. In addition, the reads were mapped to mRNA sequences, leading to the identification of 14 mRNAs (AC005041.1, ARHGEF12, AMT, ANO8, BCL11A, DIO3OS, EIF4ENIF1, G2E3-AS1, HERC3, LARS, NT5E, PITX1, SLC16A12, and ZBTB21) associated with restoration to SR. Monitoring these serum exosomal miRNA and mRNA expression patterns may be beneficial for optimizing treatment outcomes in AF patients.

The association between hyperuricemia and atrial fibrillation recurrence after catheter ablation

AbstractBackgroundHyperuricemia (HU) has been reported to be associated with a high incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the relationship between HUA and recurrent AF after catheter ablation (CA) is unclear.MethodsFour hundred consecutive AF patients (paroxysmal/persistent AF [PAF/PsAF]: 200/200) who underwent the initial CA were retrospectively enrolled. HU was defined as serum uric acid (SUA) level >7.0 mg/dL. We measured SUA levels 1 day before (pre‐CA) and 1 month after CA (post‐CA). A second‐generation 28 mm cryoballoon was used for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for PAF, while PVI plus linear ablation (roof and mitral isthmus lines) by radiofrequency catheter was conducted for PsAF.ResultsDuring 57 ± 24 months of follow‐up, AF recurred in 16% and 42% in PAF and PsAF patients (p < .0001). Pre‐CA SUA level in PsAF was significantly higher than that in PAF (6.5 ± 1.3 vs. 5.8 ± 1.3 mg/dL, p < .001). SUA level was significantly decreased after CA in both PAF and PsAF (5.8 ± 1.3 vs. 5.6 ± 1.3 mg/dL; p < .01 and 6.5 ± 1.3 vs. 6.1 ± 1.2 mg/dL; p < .0001, respectively). The association between pre−/post‐CA HU and recurrent AF was not identified in PAF, while the incidence of post‐CA HU was significantly higher in patients with recurrent AF than those without in PsAF (36% vs. 15%, p < .001). In multivariable analysis, longer AF duration and the presence of post‐CA HU were identified as independent predictors of AF recurrence in PsAF (OR:1.01, 95%CI:1.003–1.011, p = .0001 and OR:2.77, 95%CI:1.333–5.755, p = .007, respectively).ConclusionsSUA level was significantly higher in PsAF than PAF patients. The presence of post‐CA HU was strongly related to AF recurrence in PsAF patients.

Up-regulated small-conductance calcium-activated potassium currents contribute to atrial arrhythmogenesis in high-fat feeding mice.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with arrhythmias and cardiovascular mortality. Arrhythmogenesis in MetS results from atrial structural and electrical remodelling. The small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK) currents modulate atrial repolarization and may influence atrial arrhythmogenicity. This study investigated the regulation of SK current perturbed by a high-fat diet (HFD) to mimic MetS. Thirty mice were divided into two groups that were fed with normal chow (CTL) and HFD for 4 months. Electrocardiography and echocardiography were used to detect cardiac electrical and structure remodelling. Atrial action potential duration (APD) and calcium transient duration (CaTD) were measured by optical mapping of Langendorff-perfused mice hearts. Atrial fibrillation (AF) inducibility and duration were assessed by burst pacing. Whole-cell patch clamp was performed in primarily isolated atrial myocytes for SK current density. The SK current density is higher in atrial myocytes from HFD than in CTL mice (P ≤ 0.037). The RNA and protein expression of SK channels are increased in HFD mice (P ≤ 0.041 and P ≤ 0.011, respectively). Action potential duration is shortened in HFD compared with CTL (P ≤ 0.015). The shortening of the atrial APD in HFD is reversed by the application of 100 nM apamin (P ≤ 0.043). Compared with CTL, CaTD is greater in HFD atria (P ≤ 0.029). Calcium transient decay (Tau) is significantly higher in HFD than in CTL (P = 0.001). Both APD and CaTD alternans thresholds were higher in HFD (P ≤ 0.043), along with higher inducibility and longer duration of AF in HFD (P ≤ 0.023). Up-regulation of apamin-sensitive SK currents plays a partial role in the atrial arrhythmogenicity of HFD mice.

Anteroposterior Versus Anterolateral Electrode Position for Direct Current Cardioversion of Atrial Fibrillation: AMeta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.

Data regarding optimal electrode positioning for direct current cardioversion (DCCV) of atrial fibrillation (AF) has been inconsistent. This meta-analysis was conducted to systematically compare the efficacy of anteroposterior (AP) versus anterolateral (AL) electrode placement for DCCV of AF. Electronic databases were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing AP versus AL electrode positioning in patients undergoing DCCV for AF. Primary endpoints were first-shock success and overall DCCV success. Subgroup analysis was performed by defibrillator waveform (monophasic versus biphasic). Meta-regression analyses were performed to assess for significant moderators. Twelve (12) RCTs, including a total of 2,046 patients, met inclusion criteria. Neither first-shock success (relative risk [RR] 0.92; 95% CI 0.79-1.07; p=0.28) nor overall DCCV success (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.96-1.05; p=0.78) were significantly different with AP versus AL electrode positioning. The mean number of shocks (mean difference [MD] 0.3, 95% CI -0.4 to 0.9), energy level of first successful shock (MD 3 joules; 95% CI -20 to 27) and cumulative energy delivered (MD 39 joules; 95% CI -168 to 246) were similar in AP versus AL arms. In subgroup analysis of six RCTs using biphasic defibrillators, improvement in first-shock success (RR 0.85; 95% CI 0.69-1.03; p=0.10) and overall DCCV success (RR 0.97; 95% CI 0.93-1.01; p=0.09) with AL electrode positioning did not reach statistical significance. Meta-regression analyses identified older age, higher body mass index, and longer AF duration as significant moderators favouring AL electrode positioning. Pooled analysis of randomised data overall does not show a significant difference in efficacy between AP versus AL electrode positioning. Meta-regression and subgroup analyses suggest that, in contemporary practice with use of biphasic defibrillators, there may be a subset of AF patients in whom AL electrode positioning improves efficacy of DCCV.

Catheter ablation of symptomatic atrial fibrillation: Sex, ethnicity, and socioeconomic disparities.

Catheter ablation for treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF), AF ablation, is more effective than antiarrhythmic drugs in reducing AF burden, reducing symptoms and increasing health-related quality of life. Although females more often experience AF-related symptoms, and have more severe symptoms, have lower quality of life, and experience more serious adverse effects of antiarrhythmic drugs than males, they are less likely to undergo AF ablation. Potential explanations for the disparity include older age at diagnosis, longer AF duration, a greater number of comorbidities, more extensive atrial fibrosis, and presumed lower success rate and more complications after AF ablation in women. Studies have failed to show sex-related differences in AF recurrence or serious complications following AF ablation but show more nuisance bleeds in women. Ethnic minorities, such as African Americans and Latin Americans, and individuals of low socioeconomic status are also less likely to undergo AF ablation, possibly associated with greater numbers of comorbidities, lack of patient advocacy, healthcare costs, and inadequate insurance coverage. Inclusion of marginalized patient groups in clinical trials of AF treatment and a personalized, patient-centered approach may expand equality in utilization of AF ablation.

Response to ibutilide and the long-term outcome after catheter ablation for non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

This study aimed to assess the relationship between the cardiac rhythm response to ibutilide infusion after pulmonary vein isolation and the recurrence of long-term atrial arrhythmias. One hundred and thirty-eight patients with non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation who had had their first catheter ablation were retrospectively included. All patients whose atrial fibrillation did not terminate after pulmonary vein isolation were administered intravenous ibutilide (1.0 mg). Those with termination of atrial fibrillation after ibutilide administration were defined as responders (n = 86); those without termination of atrial fibrillation, as non-responders ( n = 52). The primary endpoint was any documented recurrence of atrial arrhythmia lasting more than 30 seconds after the initial catheter ablation. Conversion of atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm, directly or via atrial flutter, with ibutilide administration was achieved in 62.3% of patients. A longer duration of atrial fibrillation was associated with failed termination of atrial fibrillation (odds ratio 1.009, 95% confidence interval 1.002-1.017, p = 0.011). During a median follow-up period of 610 days (interquartile range 475-1 106) post ablation, non-responders (n = 24, 46.2%) had a higher recurrence rate of atrial arrhythmia than the responders (n = 26, 30.2%; log-rank, p = 0.011) after the initial catheter ablation. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that non-responders (hazard ratio 1.994, 95% confidence interval 1.117-3.561, p = 0.020) was significantly correlated with recurrence of atrial arrhythmias. In patients whose atrial fibrillation persisted after pulmonary vein isolation, the response to ibutilide administration could predict the recurrence of atrial arrhythmias after catheter ablation, which may be useful for risk stratification for recurrence of atrial fibrillation and individualised management of atrial fibrillation.

Higher F-wave frequency associates with poor procedural success rate after Maze procedure.

Persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) causes atrial remodeling, which causes myocardial fibrosis and micro-reentry. Fibrosis may reduce wave voltage and micro-reentry may enhance the dominant frequency (DF) of the F-wave. We investigated whether the DF predicts procedural success by the Maze procedure. In 138 consecutive patients who underwent mitral valve surgery and a modified Cox-Maze III procedure for persistent AF in Nagoya University in 2002-2018, 96 (70%) were successfully cardioverted (group S); 42 had persistent or relapsed AF after surgery (group F). Patient data were compared between the groups. Cut-off values were determined by an ROC analysis and predictors of procedural success were evaluated. The DF was obtained from the F-wave of V1 by a high-speed Fourier analysis using the CEPAS software program. Group F showed a significantly larger LA diameter, better LVEF, lower F-wave voltage, higher DF, and longer duration of AF. The cut-off values were as follows: LA diameter, 56mm; EF, 64.5%; F-wave voltage, 0.13mV; DF, 7.3Hz; and duration of AF, 44months. Each factor showed statistical significance in a univariate analysis; DF lost significance in the multivariate analysis. The higher (DF ≥ 7.3Hz) and lower voltage group (≤ 0.13mV) showed the worst procedural success rate (36%), while the lower DF (< 7.3Hz) and higher voltage group (> 0.13mV) showed a good rate (86%). The DF of the F-wave is a useful predictor of procedural success after the Maze procedure in addition to the voltage of F-wave.

Relationship between the distribution of left atrial low-voltage zones and post-ablation atrial arrhythmia recurrence in patients with atrial fibrillation

BackgroundLow-voltage zones (LVZ) are surrogate markers for cardiac fibrosis, which contribute to the maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the distribution of left atrial (LA) LVZ on the outcome following catheter ablation. MethodsThis retrospective study enrolled patients with AF who underwent initial catheter ablation. LVZ were defined as areas with bipolar voltage amplitude <0.5 mV. The left atrium was divided into six regions (anterior wall, roof, posterior wall, lateral wall, septum, and inferior wall) to describe the distribution of LVZ. The primary endpoint was atrial arrhythmia (AA) recurrence lasting >30 s after the initial catheter ablation. ResultsAltogether, 148 patients were included, with a mean age of 61 ± 11 years, of which 53 (35.8%) had persistent AF. During a mean follow-up of 14 ± 3 months post-ablation, AA recurrence occurred in 25 (16.9%) patients after the initial catheter ablation. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that patients without roof LVZ had a higher AA-free survival rate than those with roof LVZ (P = 0.047). In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, the proportion of LA LVZ ≥6% [hazard ratio (HR) 2.315, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.048–5.114; P = 0.038] and a longer AF duration (HR 1.008, 95% CI 1.002–1.014; P = 0.006) were independent predictors of AA recurrence. ConclusionsIn patients with AF, LA roof LVZ may increase the risk of AA recurrence after initial catheter ablation.

Evaluation of Safety and Effectiveness of Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients Aged ≥80 Years

The prevalence and incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly increase with age. Catheter ablation is already recommended in the guidelines for this selected elderly population. This study aimed to explore the safety and effectiveness of AF catheter ablation in patients aged ≥80 years. The data were based on the China-AF study. Patients with AF aged ≥80 years who received catheter ablation from August 2011 to December 2020 were selected. Catheter ablation included bilateral circumferential pulmonary vein antrum isolation with or without additional linear ablation. Patients were followed up every 6 months. Arrhythmia-free curves were generated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to analyse the predictors for post-ablation recurrence. A total of 270 patients were included in the study. Many patients had comorbidities: 73.7% had hypertension and 29.3% had diabetes mellitus. All patients achieved successful bilateral circumferential pulmonary vein antrum isolation. Total complications were noted in nine of 270 (3.3%) patients and nine of 286 (3.1%) ablation procedures. After the first ablation procedure, 74% of the whole cohort-78% patients with paroxysmal AF, and 66% patients with persistent AF - were free from atrial tachyarrhythmia at follow-up to 12 months. Patients with persistent AF, longer AF duration, and history of ischaemic stroke were more likely to have AF recurrence. Patients with AF aged ≥80 years, although with many comorbidities, had low complication rates and favourable outcomes after catheter ablation. Catheter ablation was a safe and effective treatment to achieve sinus rhythm in the selected elderly patients.

Left Atrial Appendage Circular RNAs Are New Predictors of Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence After Surgical Ablation in Valvular Atrial Fibrillation Patients

Atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after ablation will increase mortality and morbidity during follow up. We attempted to evaluate the relationship between circular RNAs (circRNA) and AF recurrence to establish a predictive model for early intervention. Patients who received surgical ablation retrospectively were analyzed. The expression of circRNAs were detected in the left atrial appendage. The independent risk factors of late recurrence were analyzed by multivariate analysis. The predictive model was visualized by Nomogram and tested by receiver operating characteristic curve and calibration plot. Kaplan-Meier plot was used to compare the rate of freedom from AF recurrence after surgery. The relationships between circRNAs and clinical characteristics were detected by Spearman's correlation analysis. A total of 136 patients were enrolled from September 2018 to June 2019, 55 patients experienced late recurrence during one-year follow up. Increased age, longer AF duration and increased circ 81906-RYR2, circ 44782-LAMA2, circ 418-KCNN2 and circ 35880-ANO5 were detected in recurrent patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that increased age (odds ratio (OR)=1.072, P = 0.006), longer AF duration (OR=1.007, P = 0.036) and increased circ 81906-RYR2 (OR=2.210, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for late recurrence. Area under the curve was 0.77, and the cut-off value was 70 points of the predictive model. Kaplan-Meier plots showed that patients over 70 points tended to experience AF recurrence. Circ 81906-RYR2 could be a new predictor of late recurrence after surgical ablation. A predictive model consists of age, atrial fibrillation duration, and circ 81906-RYR2 was alternative for early intervention of AF recurrence.

Outcomes of radiofrequency catheter ablation for persistent and long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation

Abstract Introduction Catheter ablation has become the first-line treatment for symptomatic patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Several approaches of substrate ablation have been used for persistent and long-standing persistent AF and the best protocol procedure is yet to be established. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of patients submitted to catheter ablation of persistent and long-standing persistent AF adding extra-pulmonary substrate approaches to pulmonary vein isolation. Methods We retrospectively studied 67 consecutive patients referred for the first procedure of catheter ablation of persistent or long-standing persistent AF from May 2016 to October 2018. The first 27 patients were subjected to pulmonary vein isolation and complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAE) ablation (group 1) and the last 40 patients were subjected to a tailored approach guided by voltage map areas and CFAE (group 2). Patient characteristics, procedure details and follow-up were assessed, and predictors of recurrence were determined. Results Mean age was 59±11 years with 58% being male. During a mean follow-up of 16±6 months 27% of the patients showed AF recurrence. There were no differences in baseline characteristics of group 1 and 2. A higher recurrence rate was found in group 1 by comparison with group 2 (40.7% vs 17.5%, Log Rank X2 = 5.076, P=0.024) (Figure 1). Also, recurrence was associated with a longer AF duration, an increased baseline Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP), an increased left atrium (LA) volume, the presence of hyperthyroidism, the absence of sinus rhythm after procedure, the inducibility of AF post-ablation and the absence of an antiarrhythmic drug at hospital discharge. After adjustment for other confounders, the patient group (HR 5.16 [1.23–21.71] P=0.025), a long-standing AF (HR 9.09 [1.41–58.82] P=0.020), the BNP value at admission (HR 1.03 [1.01–1.05] P=0.033) and the LA volume index (HR 1.13 [1.02–1.25] P=0.017) were the only independent predictors of recurrence. Conclusion Ablation of persistent and long-standing persistent AF is feasible with good results when a substrate approach is added to pulmonary vein isolation. A tailored approach seems to be more efficient, showing best outcomes in mid-term follow-up. A long-standing AF, higher BNP value and the LA enlargement are important predictors of recurrence and should be used to better select patients and to manage follow-up. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Atrial fibrillation management during septal myectomy for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A systematic review.

Atrial fibrillation is common in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and significantly impacts mortality and morbidity. In patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing septal myectomy, concomitant surgery for atrial fibrillation may improve outcomes. A systematic review was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. All studies reporting the outcomes of combined septal myectomy and atrial fibrillation surgery were included. A total of 10 observational studies were identified, including 644 patients. Most patients had paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The proportion with prior unsuccessful ablation ranged from 0 to 19%, and preoperative left atrial diameter ranged from 44 ± 17 to 52 ± 8 mm. Cox-Maze IV (n = 311) was the most common technique used, followed by pulmonary vein isolation (n = 222) and Cox-Maze III (n = 98). Patients with persistent or longstanding atrial fibrillation more frequently received Cox-Maze III/IV. Ranges of early postoperative outcomes included: mortality 0 to 7%, recurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmias 4.4 to 48%, cerebrovascular events 0 to 1.5%, and pacemaker insertion 3 to 21%. Long-term data was limited. Freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmias at 1 year ranged from 74% to 96%, and at 5 years from 52% to 100%. Preoperative predictors of late atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence included left atrial diameter >45 mm, persistent or longstanding preoperative atrial fibrillation and longer atrial fibrillation duration. In patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing septal myectomy, the addition of ablation surgery adds low overall risk to the procedure, and likely reduces the risk of recurrent atrial fibrillation in the long term. Future randomised studies comparing septal myectomy with or without concomitant AF ablation are needed.

NLRP3 inflammasome is a key driver of obesity-induced atrial arrhythmias.

Obesity, an established risk factor of atrial fibrillation (AF), is frequently associated with enhanced inflammatory response. However, whether inflammatory signaling is causally linked to AF pathogenesis in obesity remains elusive. We recently demonstrated that the constitutive activation of the 'NACHT, LRR, and PYD Domains-containing Protein 3' (NLRP3) inflammasome promotes AF susceptibility. In this study, we hypothesized that the NLRP3 inflammasome is a key driver of obesity-induced AF. Western blotting was performed to determine the level of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in atrial tissues of obese patients, sheep, and diet-induced obese (DIO) mice. The increased body weight in patients, sheep, and mice was associated with enhanced NLRP3-inflammasome activation. To determine whether NLRP3 contributes to the obesity-induced atrial arrhythmogenesis, wild-type (WT) and NLRP3 homozygous knockout (NLRP3-/-) mice were subjected to high-fat-diet (HFD) or normal chow (NC) for 10 weeks. Relative to NC-fed WT mice, HFD-fed WT mice were more susceptible to pacing-induced AF with longer AF duration. In contrast, HFD-fed NLRP3-/- mice were resistant to pacing-induced AF. Optical mapping in DIO mice revealed an arrhythmogenic substrate characterized by abbreviated refractoriness and action potential duration (APD), two key determinants of reentry-promoting electrical remodeling. Upregulation of ultra-rapid delayed-rectifier K+-channel (Kv1.5) contributed to the shortening of atrial refractoriness. Increased profibrotic signaling and fibrosis along with abnormal Ca2+ release from sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) accompanied atrial arrhythmogenesis in DIO mice. Conversely, genetic ablation of Nlrp3 (NLRP3-/-) in HFD-fed mice prevented the increases in Kv1.5 and the evolution of electrical remodeling, the upregulation of profibrotic genes, and abnormal SR Ca2+ release in DIO mice. These results demonstrate that the atrial NLRP3 inflammasome is a key driver of obesity-induced atrial arrhythmogenesis and establishes a mechanistic link between obesity-induced AF and NLRP3-inflammasome activation.

Abstract 15556: Clinical Outcomes After Routine Cox-MAZE IV and Appendectomy and Aggressive Left Atrial Plication Added to Mitral Valve Repair for Atrial Functional Mitral Regurgitation

Introduction: Atrial functional mitral regurgitation (AFMR) is one of the significant factors to worsen the outcomes in heart failure. The optimal therapy for AFMR is still controversial. Previous studies reported AFMR patients underwent mitral valve repair alone frequently had heart failure re-hospitalization or stroke after surgery. New guidelines recommend adding surgical ablation as a concomitant procedure for class I indications. However, many surgeons avoid concomitant procedure especially in patients with extremely enlarged left atrium (LA) and long atrial fibrillation (AF) duration. Hypothesis: Routine strategy of adding surgical ablation and appendectomy and aggressive LA plication to mitral valve repair might improve the outcomes with keeping sinus rhythm and without stroke events in AFMR patients. Methods and Results: We investigated 35 consecutive patients with severe AFMR who underwent surgery in our institute between 2014 and 2018. Our strategy was Cox-maze IV and appendectomy for all patients and if LA volume was more than 200 ml by echocardiography, we added LA plication. In addition to clinical data and conventional echocardiographic assessment (Table), left ventricular (LV) function was evaluated using 2D speckle tracking echocardiography. MR grade improved in all patients. Despite enlarged LA, 76% of patients regained sinus rhythm and atrial kick was detected by pulse doppler method (mean value: 55 ± 19 cm/s). After 2-year follow-up, LV global longitudinal strain and LA peak strain were significantly improved (Table). During 4.1 ± 1.3 years observation, no patient experienced heart failure re-hospitalization and stroke. Conclusions: Majority of AFMR patients had long duration of AF and severely enlarged LA. The routine Cox-maze IV, appendectomy and aggressive LA plication in enlarged LA patients improved LV and LA function. This strategy may contribute to the better long-term outcomes of AFMR compared to mitral valve repair alone.

Severe sleep apnea is associated with atrial fibrillation burden in pacemaker recipients

Abstract Background New generation pacemaker allow the assessment day by day of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) based on impedance measurement. A recent study demonstrated that incidence of AF is higher in case of severe SA monitored by pacemaker Purpose The aim was to compare the atrial fibrillation (AF) burden between patients with severe and non-severe sleep apnea (SA) detected with pacemakers monitoring (SDB). Methods This retrospective study was carried out at our University Hospital. We included all patients with Microport CRM pacemaker implanted from 2013 to 2016 at our university hospital. Exclusion criteria were inactivation of sleep apnea monitoring (SAM), history of sleep apnea, missing data or invalid data. AF burden was assessed according to Fallback mode switch (FMS) duration. Respiratory disturbance index (RDI) was calculated as the average number of events (ventilation pause and reductions) per number of hours of monitoring. Patients with RDI&amp;lt;20/h were compared with patients with RDI≥20/h (considered as severe SA group). Results 404 patients (mean age = 79.7±10 years; 52.0% men) were included. The most prevalent indication for cardiac pacing was atrioventricular block in 57%. Mean RDI was 18.9 events per hour. 234 (58%) of them had a mean RDI &amp;lt;20 and 170 (42%) had a mean RDI ≥20. Compared to patients with mean RDI&amp;lt;20, those with mean RDI ≥20 were youngers (78.6±10 years Vs 81.8±8 years; p=0.02), were more likely to be male (58.2% Vs 47.5%: p=0.035) and had more heart failure history (28.8% Vs 19.2%: p=0.03). BMI was not different between groups (26.3±5. vs 26.3±4; P=0.33). Mean follow-up was 27 months. Patients with RDI ≥20 had a mean Atrial fibrillation duration longer than patients with RDI &amp;lt;20 (631 min Vs 291 min respectively; p=0.014). RDI was correlated with FMS (r=0.26; p=0.0004). The stroke rate tended to be higher in the RDI ≥20 group (2.1% vs 5.4%) (p=0.12). Conclusion Severe SA detected by pacemaker was associated with longer AF duration. We did not find higher occurrence of stroke in the severe SA group. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Long-term durability of posterior wall isolation using the cryoballoon in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation: a multicenter analysis of repeat catheter ablations

There is a growing interest in performing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with concomitant posterior wall isolation (PWI) using the cryoballoon for the treatment of patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). However, there is little known about the long-term durability of PWI using this approach. In this multicenter study, we retrospectively examined the durability of PVI + PWI using the 28-mm cryoballoon by investigating the outcomes from consecutive patients referred for repeat catheter ablation. Altogether, 81/519 patients (15.6%) were referred for repeat catheter ablation. Repeat ablation was associated with a longer AF duration, hypertension, heart failure, multiple cardioversions, and antiarrhythmic therapy as well as larger left atrial (LA) diameters (49 ± 4 mm versus 43 ± 5 mm; P < 0.001) and greater need for "touch-up" (adjunct) radiofrequency ablation (44.4% versus 18.3%; P < 0.001). LA diameter also emerged as a significant predictor for adjunct radiofrequency ablation (P < 0.001). Durable PVI was observed in 66/81 patients (81.5%) and PWI in 67/81 patients (82.7%). Those with incomplete PWI exhibited larger LA diameters, particularly > 48 mm (negative predictive value = 89.7%). Lastly, an atypical LA posterior wall/roof flutter represented the third most common cause of arrhythmia recurrence and essentiallyevery patient with incomplete PWI exhibited such an arrhythmia. PWI performed using a 28-mm cryoballoon in conjunction with PVI exhibits long-term durability in the vast majority of patients with persistent AF. While LA diameter (particularly > 48 mm) is a significant predictor for the need for adjunct radiofrequency ablation when performing this technique, those with incomplete PWI invariably present with an atypical flutter using this substrate.

Impact of right ventricular function on development of significant tricuspid regurgitation in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation

BackgroundChronic atrial fibrillation (AF) can cause significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR), which may result from tricuspid annulus and right atrial enlargement. However, the impact of right ventricular (RV) function on TR development remains unclear. MethodsWe retrospectively examined 175 consecutive patients with lone chronic AF (duration >1 year) without left ventricular dysfunction. TR severity was graded by the jet area and vena contracta, and moderate or severe TR were defined as significant TR. Patients were classified as significant TR (TR group) or without (NTR group) for comparison of clinical factors and transthoracic echocardiographic (TTE) parameters. To explore factors associated with TR development, we also compared previous TTE parameters among patients in TR group who showed no prior significant TR [TR-preTR(−)] and those in NTR group [NTR-preTR(−)]. ResultsThe mean age was 78 years (61% men). Significant TR was observed in 61 patients (35%). Compared with NTR group, the TR group was older, and had longer AF duration and larger right-sided cardiac parameters on index TTE. At previous TTE, the TR-preTR(−) group showed a larger basal RV dimension index (26.8 vs. 22.4mm/m2), reduced RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVLS-FW) (−18.96 vs. −23.23), and lower tricuspid annular diameter change during a cardiac cycle (8.8% vs. 14.1%) than NTR-preTR(−) group. ConclusionSignificant TR was observed in 35% of patients with chronic AF. These patients showed enlarged RV, reduced RVLS-FW, and low tricuspid annular diameter changes before significant TR develops. RV dysfunction may be associated with TR development in chronic AF.

Persistent atrial fibrillation over 3 years is associated with higher recurrence after catheter ablation.

InstructionLonger atrial fibrillation (AF) durations have higher recurrence rates after rhythm control. However, there is limited data on the effect of the AF duration on recurrence after atrial fibrillation catheter ablation (AFCA). In the present study, we investigated the rhythm outcome of AFCA according to the AF duration based on the first electrocardiogram (ECG) diagnosis.Methods and ResultsWe included 1005 patients with AF (75% male, 59 ± 11 years old) who underwent AFCA and whose first ECG diagnosis time point was evident. The clinical characteristics and rhythm outcomes were compared based on the AF duration (≤3 years, n = 537; >3 years, n = 468) and AF burden (paroxysmal atrial fibrillation [PAF], n = 387; persistent atrial fibrillation [PeAF], n = 618). Longer AF durations were associated with older age (P = .020), larger left atrial size (P = .009) and a higher number of patients with hypertension (P < .001) or PeAF (P < .001). During 24 ± 22 months of follow‐up, the postablation clinical recurrence rate was higher in patients with a longer AF duration (logrank P = .002). The AF recurrence rate was significantly higher in PeAF patients with an AF duration >3 years (logrank P = 0.009), but not in subjects with PAF (logrank P = .939). In a multivariate Cox regression analysis, a longer AF duration was significantly associated with a higher clinical recurrence rate after AFCA in PeAF patients (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.06; range, 1.03‐0.10; P = 0.001), but not PAF.ConclusionAlthough longer AF duration was associated with higher clinical recurrence rates after AFCA, the rate was significant in patients with PeAF lasting >3 years, but not in PAF patients.

Bleeding Tolerance Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation on Oral Anticoagulation

BackgroundOral anticoagulation increases the bleeding risk. We investigated how clinical factors and the level of atrial fibrillation (AF) knowledge affect the bleeding acceptance in patients with AF. MethodsIn 173 consecutive anticoagulated outpatients with AF (aged 68.7 ± 10.7 years, 39.3% male), the bleeding ratio was assessed based on the declared maximum number of major bleeds the people were willing to endure to avert 1 stroke. The Jessa AF Knowledge Questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge of AF. ResultsCompared with patients with the high bleeding ratio (≥ 4 accepted bleedings, n = 88, 50.9%), subjects with the low bleeding ratio (0-3 accepted bleedings, n = 85, 49.1%) were older, with longer duration of AF, suffered more commonly from heart failure, and were free of cerebrovascular events. Patients after major bleeding (n = 33, 19.1%) and those reporting minor bleeds on anticoagulation (n = 77, 44.5%) had lower bleeding ratio. The independent predictors of the low bleeding ratio were older age (odds ratio [OR], 2.50; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.69-3.70), major bleeds on anticoagulation (OR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.16-10.0), minor bleeds on anticoagulation (OR, 3.45; 95% CI, 1.67-7.14), and prior stroke/transient ischemic attack (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.22-0.99). The level of knowledge of AF did not affect the bleeding ratio. ConclusionsThe key determinants of the bleeding ratio among anticoagulated patients with AF are age, and prior thromboembolic and bleeding episodes. The study could support identification of patients with AF who need additional effort to increase their acceptance of a life-long oral anticoagulation therapy.

Risk Factors for Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence After Cox Maze IV Performed Without Pre-exclusion

New guidelines from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons recommend adding surgical ablation as a concomitant procedure for class I indications. We performed the maze procedure for all patients who experienced atrial fibrillation (AF) before cardiac surgery, without surgeon pre-exclusion. We retrospectively analyzed 83 patients, aged 71 ± 11 years (22% >80 years), who underwent Cox maze IV for persistent AF between 2014 and 2017. The mean AF duration (AFD) was 6.9 ± 8.6 years and European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II was 7.2 ± 6.8. The 30-day mortality was 2.4%. During follow-up (mean, 675 days), the 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates were 92%, 86%, and 82%, respectively. No strokes were observed despite a mean CHA2DS2-VASC (Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Age [≥65= 1 point, ≥75= 2 points], Diabetes, and Stroke/transient ischemic attack [2points], vascular disease, Sex [female = 1 point]) score of 4.1 (expected stroke rate, 4%/y). Twelve patients required a new pacemaker; 56of 73 survivors (77%) remained AF free. Multivariate logistic regression identified preoperative AFD, f wave size, and mean heart rate per Holter as important risk factors for AF recurrence, with AFD as the most important: 98% of patients with AFD less than 5 years remained AF free. Although the AF-free rate with the AFD of 5 or more years was only 55%, their symptoms improved without heart failure readmission. Concomitant atrial plication was performed more frequently in the group with AFD for 5 or more years, with greater atrial volume reduction and appreciable increases in stroke volume. The Cox maze IV procedure performed without pre-exclusion showed reasonable survival rates. Although AF recurred in patients with longer AFD, they fared well with substantial increases in stroke volume. Concomitant atrial volume reduction may have contributed to these additional benefits.