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Review
. 2006 May;29(5):523-37.
doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2006.00388.x.

Atrial fibrillation ablation: reaching the mainstream

John D Fisher  1 , Michael A Spinelli, Disha Mookherjee, Andrew K Krumerman, Eugen C Palma
Affiliations
Review

Atrial fibrillation ablation: reaching the mainstream

John D Fisher et al. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2006 May.

Abstract

Introduction and aims: Ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) has evolved rapidly in the decade since its inception. We aimed to review the results of this evolution as reflected in the published literature.

Methods: Publications through 2005 were reviewed, and data included if there was information on the technique used, and follow-up of at least 6 months.

Results: More than 23,000 patients met criteria for inclusion. There has been a steady improvement in reported outcomes (P<0.001). Variations on radiofrequency catheter ablation for pulmonary vein isolation result in apparent elimination ("cure") or improvement of AF in 75%, and surgical techniques are even better.

Conclusions: Catheter ablation of AF is now a mainstream procedure. Continuing technical advances are needed to achieve better results with more uniformity and reduced procedure times.

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