Results of ICE-Guided Isolation of the Superior Vena Cava With Pulsed Field Ablation

Abstract

Background: Earlier studies have documented the risk for sinoatrial node injury and phrenic nerve paralysis as complications following radiofrequency catheter ablation for electrical isolation of the superior vena cava (SVCI).

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the safety and feasibility of SVCI in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing pulsed field ablation (PFA) METHODS: A total of 1,600 consecutive patients undergoing PFA for pulmonary vein isolation plus SVCI were included in this multicenter analysis. Superior vena cava (SVC) ablation was performed under the continuous guidance of intracardiac echocardiography. The PFA catheter was placed at the junction between the SVC and the right atrium at the level of the lower border of the pulmonary artery. A total of 4 applications were given to achieve complete electrical isolation of the SVC. Sinus node injury and phrenic nerve stunning were checked during the procedure, before discharge, and at 2-month follow-up.

Results: A total of 616 patients receiving SVCI were included in the analysis. Acute SVCI was achieved in all 616 patients (100%). In the flower configuration used in the first 10 patients, 2 transient sinus node injuries and 2 episodes of phrenic nerve stunning were observed, which resolved spontaneously during the procedure. In the remaining patients, the basket configuration was used; only 1 episode of phrenic nerve stunning was registered, which regressed before the end of the procedure. No permanent damages were registered at discharge and at 2-month follow-up.

Conclusions: Intracardiac echocardiography-guided PFA can effectively isolate the SVC with a good safety profile.

Keywords: atrial fibrillation; intracardiac echocardiography; phrenic nerve paralysis; pulsed field ablation; sinus node stunning; superior vena cava isolation.