Single procedure efficacy of isolating all versus arrhythmogenic pulmonary veins on long-term control of atrial fibrillation: a prospective randomized study

Abstract

Background: Current atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation involves isolation of all pulmonary veins (PVs) with or without additional linear lesions. However, whether such extensive ablation is necessary is unclear.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of different ablation strategies on long-term AF control.

Methods: We prospectively randomized patients to undergo isolation of all versus arrhythmogenic PVs (identified by standardized stimulation protocol). PV isolation was guided by circular mapping catheter. The endpoint was entry/exit block persisting for > or = 20 minutes. Patients were evaluated at three clinic visits (at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year) and multiple transtelephonic monitoring periods. Antiarrhythmic drugs were discontinued at 6 weeks. Primary study endpoint was long-term AF control (freedom or >90% reduction in AF burden off or on previously ineffective antiarrhythmic drugs at 1 year after a single ablation procedure).

Results: Over a 20-month period, 105 patients (76 men and 29 women, age 57 +/- 9 years; paroxysmal AF = 77) were randomized, and 103 patients completed 1-year follow-up (51 patients in all-PV arm, 52 patients in arrhythmogenic PV arm). The primary endpoint was achieved in 75 (73%) patients and was similar in patients randomized to all-PV arm versus arrhythmogenic PV arm [38 (75%) patients vs 37 (71%) patients, respectively; odds ratio 1.18, 95% confidence interval 0.50, 2.83, P = .70]. Secondary study endpoints, including freedom from AF off antiarrhythmic drugs, total procedure/fluoroscopy times, and occurrence of serious adverse events, were not different between the two groups.

Conclusion: In a randomized comparison, isolation of arrhythmogenic veins was as efficacious as empiric isolation of all veins in achieving long-term AF control.