Abstract

MARQUEZ, Manlio F. Ablation catheter program implemented for atrial fibrillation at the National Institute of Cardiology of Mexico. Arch. Cardiol. Méx. [online]. 2007, vol.77, suppl.2, pp.40-43. ISSN 1665-1731.

The present report describes the program of radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients referred to the AF Clinic of the National Heart Institute. If the patient had specific inclusion criteria for RFCA of AF, and electrophysiological study is performed. A trans-septal approach and special mapping catheters are used to detect abnormal electrical activity (AEA). Pulmonary vein isolation is performed at the ostium/antrum of those veins with AEA if the patient had paroxysmal AF. Global pulmonary vein isolation with some additional lines guided by electroanatomical mapping is performed in the case of chronic AF. Postoperative follow-up includes consultation, ECG and Holter monitoring at 1, 3, 6 and 12-month. RFCA is a useful and relatively safe procedure for the treatment of AF and the only one with curative potential.

Keywords : Atrial fibrillation; Radiofrequency catheter ablation; Trans-septal left atrial catheterization.

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