First Dutch experience with the endoscopic laser balloon ablation system for the treatment of atrial fibrillation.
Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT: Introduction
The endoscopic laser balloon ablation system (EAS) is a relatively novel technique to perform pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). The present study aimed to report the results of the first 50 patients treated in the Netherlands with the EAS in terms of procedural characteristics and AF-free survival.Methods
Fifty patients successfully underwent EAS PVI. Median follow-up was 17 months. Mean age was 56 years, 82 % had paroxysmal AF.Results
99 % of the pulmonary veins were successfully isolated with the EAS. Mean procedure time was 171 min and mean fluoroscopy time was 36 min. One procedure was complicated by a temporary phrenic nerve palsy (2 %). During follow-up, 58 % of patients remained free of AF without the use of antiarrhythmic drugs.Conclusion
PVI with EAS is associated with a low risk of complications and a medium-term AF-free survival comparable with other PVI techniques.
SUBMITTER: Gal P
PROVIDER: S-EPMC4315796 | biostudies-literature |
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Similar Datasets
Project description:Catheter-based ablation techniques have a well-established role in atrial fibrillation (AF) management. The prevalence and impact of AF is increasing globally, thus mandating an emphasis on improving ablation techniques through innovation. One key area of ongoing evolution in this field is the use of laser energy to perform pulmonary vein isolation during AF catheter ablation. While laser use is not as widespread as other ablation techniques, such as radiofrequency ablation and cryoballoon ablation, advancements in product design and procedural protocols have demonstrated laser balloon ablation to be equally safe and effective compared to these other modalities. Additionally, strategies to improve procedural efficiency and decrease radiation exposure through low fluoroscopy protocols make this technology an increasingly promising and exciting option.
| S-EPMC7917803 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) has been established worldwide and is recommended for symptomatic paroxysmal AF patients according to international guidelines. Importantly, the cornerstone of any AF ablation represents pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Traditional radiofrequency (RF) point by point ablation within a 3D electroanatomic left atrial (LA) map requires profound understanding of LA anatomy and electrophysiology. This ablation strategy can be highly efficient and safe if performed in experienced hands and centers. However, procedural complexity causes a long learning curve and has limited its wide spread utilization. In contrast, balloon based PVI ablation strategies are based on an anatomic principle. Currently, two balloon types (cryoballoon and laserballoon) have been adopted to clinical routine. Both balloons are positioned at the target PV and circumferential energy ablation is enabled. This simplified anatomic approach facilitates reaching the procedural endpoint of PVI and demonstrated less operator dependency. Therefore, balloon PVI appears to be associated with improved procedural reproducibility and safety. Importantly, large scale randomized trials proved non-inferiority of balloon guided AF ablation (cryothermal and laser energy) vs. experienced operators using traditional "gold standard" RF ablation in paroxysmal and persistent AF. Ongoing technological refinements of both balloons as well as the introduction of novel energy dosing strategies and ablation targets may potentially impact the current way of ablating AF in future. This review will summarize current clinical experience of contemporary balloon devices and will look into future developments.
| S-EPMC6813157 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BackgroundRadiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) without using fluoroscopy has been getting popular. In this study, we reported the transition period experience of the zero-fluoroscopy procedure by an experienced operator and shared our zero-fluoroscopy protocol.MethodA total of consecutive 30 AF ablation cases attempted to be treated without fluoroscopy were investigated. Ten serial cases were grouped as fluoroscopy-guided period, and period 1-3 in chronological order. All zero-fluoroscopy attempted cases were assisted with an intracardiac echocardiography device with a three-dimensional electroanatomical system.ResultsComplete zero-fluoroscopy procedure was achieved at the 6th case during the transitional period. During the first period, the total procedure time slightly increased in, but afterward, procedure time was continuously decreased, and it became significantly shorter in the third period than the previous fluoroscopy-guided period. Any additional use of fluoroscopy during the transitional period was mainly for transseptal puncture and diagnostic catheter placement into the coronary sinus. Pulmonary vein isolation was achieved in all patients, and there was one case of hemodynamically insignificant moderate amount pericardial effusion.ConclusionFor an experienced operator, complete zero-fluoroscopy AF ablation might be achieved safely and feasibly within 5-10 cases. Fluoroscopy equipment backup might be useful during the learning period for beginners in the zero-fluoroscopy procedure.
| S-EPMC7733568 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is an established treatment option for symptomatic patients refractory to antiarrhythmic medication. In patients with paroxysmal AF, ablation can be offered as first-line therapy when performed in an experienced centre. The accepted cornerstone for all ablation strategies is isolation of the pulmonary veins. However, it is still challenging to achieve contiguous, transmural, permanent lesions using radio-frequency current (RFC) based catheters in conjunction with a three-dimensional mapping system and the learning curve remains long. These limitations have kindled interest in developing and evaluating novel catheter designs that incorporate alternative energy sources. Novel catheters include balloon-based ablation systems, incorporating different energy modalities such as laser (Heartlight(™), CardioFocus, Marlborough, MA, US), RFC (Hot Balloon Catheter, Hayama Arrhythmia Institute, Kanagawa, Japan) and cryo-energy (ArcticFront, Medtronic, Inc., Minneapolis, MN, US). While the cryoballoon (CB) and the radiofrequency hot balloon (RHB) are single-shot devices, the endoscopic ablation system (EAS) allows for point-by-point ablation. The CB and EAS are well established as safe, time-efficient and effective ablation tools. Initial studies using the RHB could also demonstrate promising results. However, more data are required.
| S-EPMC4711574 | biostudies-literature
Project description:The management of non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) remains controversial. We examined the efficacy and safety of the 2 stage Hybrid AF ablation approach by analysing the largest series of this technique reported so far.MethodsThe approach aims to electrically isolate the left atrial posterior wall incorporating the pulmonary veins ('box-set'pattern). An initial video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) epicardial ablation is followed after a minimum of 8 weeks by endocardial radiofrequency catheter ablation.ResultsOf 175 patients from 4 European cardiothoracic centers, who underwent the surgical (COBRA Fusion, AtriCure Inc) 1st stage ablation, 166 went on to complete 2nd stage catheter ablation. At median follow up of 18 months post 2nd stage procedure 93/166 (56%) had remained free of AF or atrial tachycardia (AT) recurrence off antiarrhythmic drugs. 110/175 62.9% were in sinus rhythm off all antiarrhythmic drugs at last clinic follow-up (132/175 75.4% including those on antiarrhythmic drugs). 18 patients (10.8%) underwent a further re-do ablation (mean of 1.1 ablations per patient) 105/166 (63%) remained free of AF/AT recurrence off antiarrhythmic drugs following last ablation procedure.Latterly, ILRs have been implanted in patients (n = 56); 60% have remained fully arrhythmia free and 80% have shown AF burden < 5% at a median 14 months follow-up [IQR: 13.5 (8-21.5)]. Only 10.9% have reverted to persistent AF. 5 patients (2.9%) had a perioperative stroke and 4 patients (2.3%) exhibited persistent weakness of the right hemidiaphragm following stage 1 VATS epicardial ablation. One patient died following stroke (overall mortality 0.6%).ConclusionsIn patients with non-paroxysmal AF with unfavourable characteristics for catheter ablation, the staged hybrid approach results in acceptable levels of freedom from recurrent atrial arrhythmia, however, complication rates are higher than with catheter ablation alone.
| S-EPMC7046539 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Ablation is increasingly used to treat AF, since recent trials of pharmacological therapy for AF have been disappointing. Ablation has been shown to improve maintenance of sinus rhythm compared to pharmacological therapy in many multicenter trials, although success rates remain suboptimal. This review will discuss several trends in the field of catheter ablation, including studies to advance our understanding of AF mechanisms in different patient populations, innovations in detecting and classifying AF, use of this information to improve strategies for ablation, technical innovations that have improved the ease and safety of ablation, and novel approaches to surgical therapy and imaging. These trends are likely to further improve results from AF ablation in coming years as it becomes an increasingly important therapeutic option for many patients.
| S-EPMC4764083 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BACKGROUND:Combined 'hybrid' thoracoscopic and percutaneous atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is a strategy used to treat AF in patients with therapy-resistant symptomatic AF. We aimed to study efficacy and safety of single-stage hybrid AF ablation in patients with symptomatic persistent AF, or paroxysmal AF with failed endocardial ablation, and assess determinants of success and quality of life. METHODS:We included consecutive patients undergoing single-stage hybrid AF ablation. First, we performed epicardial ablation, via thoracoscopic access, to isolate the pulmonary veins and superior caval vein and to create a posterior left atrial box. Thereafter, isolation was assessed endocardially and complementary endocardial ablation was performed, followed by cavotricuspid isthmus ablation. Efficacy was assessed by 12-lead electrocardiography and 72-hour Holter monitoring after 3, 6 and 12 months. Recurrence was defined as AF/atrial flutter/tachycardia recorded by electrocardiography or Holter monitoring lasting >30?s during 1?year follow-up. RESULTS:Fifty patients were included, 57?±?9 years, 38 (76%) men, 5 (10%) paroxysmal, 34 (68%) persistent and 11 (22%) long-standing persistent AF. At 1?year 38 (76%) maintained sinus rhythm off antiarrhythmic drugs. Majority of recurrences were atrial flutter (9/12 patients). Success was associated with type of AF (p?=?0.039). Patients with paroxysmal AF had highest success, patients with longstanding persistent AF had lowest success. Seven (14%) patients had procedure-related complications. Quality of life improved after ablation in patients who maintained sinus rhythm. CONCLUSION:Success of single-stage hybrid AF ablation was 76% off antiarrhythmic drugs, being associated with type of AF. Quality of life improved significantly, Procedure-related complications occurred in 14%.
| S-EPMC6393682 | biostudies-literature
Project description:BACKGROUND:Ablation is a widely used therapy for atrial fibrillation (AF); however, arrhythmia recurrence and repeat procedures are common. Studies examining surrogate markers of genetic susceptibility to AF, such as family history and individual AF susceptibility alleles, suggest these may be associated with recurrence outcomes. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to test the association between AF genetic susceptibility and recurrence after ablation using a comprehensive polygenic risk score for AF. METHODS:Ten centers from the AF Genetics Consortium identified patients who had undergone de novo AF ablation. AF genetic susceptibility was measured using a previously described polygenic risk score (N=929 single-nucleotide polymorphisms) and tested for an association with clinical characteristics and time-to-recurrence with a 3 month blanking period. Recurrence was defined as >30 seconds of AF, atrial flutter, or atrial tachycardia. Multivariable analysis adjusted for age, sex, height, body mass index, persistent AF, hypertension, coronary disease, left atrial size, left ventricular ejection fraction, and year of ablation. RESULTS:Four thousand two hundred seventy-six patients were eligible for analysis of baseline characteristics and 3259 for recurrence outcomes. The overall arrhythmia recurrence rate between 3 and 12 months was 44% (1443/3259). Patients with higher AF genetic susceptibility were younger (P<0.001) and had fewer clinical risk factors for AF (P=0.001). Persistent AF (hazard ratio [HR], 1.39 [95% CI, 1.22-1.58]; P<0.001), left atrial size (per cm: HR, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.19-1.46]; P<0.001), and left ventricular ejection fraction (per 10%: HR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.80-0.97]; P=0.008) were associated with increased risk of recurrence. In univariate analysis, higher AF genetic susceptibility trended towards a higher risk of recurrence (HR, 1.08 [95% CI, 0.99-1.18]; P=0.07), which became less significant in multivariable analysis (HR, 1.06 [95% CI, 0.98-1.15]; P=0.13). CONCLUSIONS:Higher AF genetic susceptibility was associated with younger age and fewer clinical risk factors but not recurrence. Arrhythmia recurrence after AF ablation may represent a genetically different phenotype compared to AF susceptibility.
| S-EPMC7080569 | biostudies-literature
Project description:PURPOSE:Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an established approach to treat symptomatic non-permanent atrial fibrillation (AF). Detecting AF recurrence after PVI is important, if discontinuation of oral anticoagulation after ablation is considered. METHODS:Patients with symptomatic paroxysmal AF were enrolled in the prospective randomized mesh ablator vs. cryoballoon pulmonary vein (PV) ablation of symptomatic paroxysmal AF study, comparing efficacy and safety of the HD Mesh Ablator® (C.R. Bard, Lowell, MA, USA) and the Arctic Front® (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) catheter. Rhythm status post-PVI was closely monitored for 1?year using the implantable loop recorder (ILR) Reveal XT® (Medtronic Minneapolis, MN, USA). RESULTS:The study was terminated after the first interim analysis due to the inability of the HD Mesh Ablator® to achieve the predefined primary study endpoint, an exit block of all PVs. After a 90-day blanking period, 23 (62.2%) out of 37 study patients (median 63.0?years; 41% females) had at least one episode of AF. AF recurrence was associated with AF episodes during the blanking period {hazard ratios (HR) 5.10 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21-21.4]; p?=?0.038}, and a common left-sided PV ostium [HR 4.17 (95%CI 1.48-11.8); p?=?0.039] but not with catheter type, age, gender, cardiovascular risk profile, or left atrial volume. There was a trend toward AF recurrence in patients without complete PVI of all PV (p?=?0.095). Overall, 337 (59.4%) out of 566 ILR-detected episodes represented AF. Comparing patients with AF recurrence to those without, there was no difference in cognitive performance 6?months post-ablation. CONCLUSION:Using an ILR, in more than 60% of all patients with paroxysmal AF, a recurrence of AF was detected within 12?months after ablation. In patients with a common PV ostium, the first generation balloon-based catheter is obviously less effective. CLINICAL TRIALS:http://Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01061931.
| S-EPMC5303896 | biostudies-literature
Project description:AIMS:Freedom from atrial fibrillation (AF) at 1 year can be achieved in 50-70% of patients undergoing catheter ablation. Recurrent AF early after ablation most commonly terminates spontaneously without further interventional treatment but is associated with later recurrent AF. The aim of this investigation is to identify clinical and procedural factors associated with recurrence of AF early after ablation. METHODS AND RESULTS:We retrospectively analysed data for recurrence of AF within the first 3 months after catheter ablation from the randomized controlled AXAFA-AFNET 5 trial, which demonstrated that continuous anticoagulation with apixaban is as safe and as effective compared to vitamin K antagonists in 678 patients undergoing first AF ablation. The primary outcome of first recurrent AF within 90?days was observed in 163 (28%) patients, in which 78 (48%) patients experienced an event within the first 14?days post-ablation. After multivariable adjustment, a history of stroke/transient ischaemic attack [hazard ratio (HR) 1.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93-2.6; P?=?0.11], coronary artery disease (HR 1.85, 95% CI 1.20-2.86; P?=?0.005), cardioversion during ablation (HR 1.78, 95% CI 1.26-2.49; P?=?0.001), and an age:sex interaction for older women (HR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00-1.01; P?=?0.04) were associated with recurrent AF. The P-wave duration at follow-up was significantly longer for patients with AF recurrence (129?±?31?ms vs. 122?±?22?ms in patients without AF, P?=?0.03). CONCLUSION:Half of all early AF recurrences within the first 3 months post-ablation occurred within the first 14?days post-ablation. Vascular disease and cardioversion during the procedure are strong predictors of recurrent AF. P-wave duration at follow-up was longer in patients with recurrent AF. TRIAL REGISTRATION:Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02227550.
| S-EPMC7478316 | biostudies-literature