Atrial fibrillation ablation

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most commonly encountered arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation has significant implications in terms of morbidity and effects on quality of life, especially due to the risk of embolic phenomena and in particular embolic stroke that may have significant prognostic implications. The prevalence of AF increases with age and in patients with cardiac disease. Atrial fibrillation ablation is becoming a viable option and the number of procedures is on the rise in suitable patients. In this review we describe the rationale behind this procedure in terms of underlying mechanisms of AF, various techniques and risks vs. benefits in different patient groups. Whether atrial fibrillation ablation, should be used as first line therapy is still controversial. In addition, it should be remembered that even after a presumably successful ablation, it is not an indication to stop anticoagulation therapy. Anticoagulation should be maintained if appropriate guideline indications exist. e