[Radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation]

Abstract

New non-pharmacological interventions have evolved over the latest decades in order to prevent atrial fibrillation and/or reduce symptoms. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been performed in Denmark since 2001. In 2011, 2,529 catheter-based RFAs for atrial fibrillation were performed. RFA is now considered a treatment option in patients with drug-refractory atrial fibrillation or young patients who prefer RFA rather than anti-arrhythmic drugs. RFA aims at minimising the impact of "trigger foci" from the pulmonary veins or inhibiting the evolvement of electrical impulses within the atrium.