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Giehm-Reese M, Kronborg MB, Lukac P, Kristiansen SB, Jensen HK, Gerdes C, Kristensen J, Nielsen JM, Nielsen JC. A randomized trial of contact force in atrial flutter ablation. Europace 2020; 22:947-955. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euaa049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Aims
Contact force (CF) sensing has emerged as a tool to guide and improve outcomes for catheter ablation (CA) for cardiac arrhythmias. The clinical benefit on patient outcomes remains unknown. To study whether CF-guided CA for typical atrial flutter (AFL) is superior to CA not guided by CF.
Methods and results
In a double-blinded controlled superiority trial, we randomized patients 1:1 to receive CA for typical AFL guided by CF (intervention group) or blinded to CF (control group). In the intervention group, a specific value of the lesion size index (LSI), estimating ablation lesions size was targeted for each ablation lesion. Patients underwent electrophysiological study (EPS) after 3 months to assess occurrence of the primary endpoint of re-conduction across the cavo-tricuspid isthmus (CTI). We included 156 patients with typical AFL, median age was 68 [interquartile range (IQR) 61–74] years and 120 (77%) patients were male. At index procedure median LSI was higher in the intervention group [6.4 (IQR 5.1–7) vs. 5.6 (IQR 4.5–6.9), P < 0.0001]. After 3 months, 126 patients (58 in intervention group) underwent EPS for primary endpoint assessment. Thirty (24%) patients had CTI re-conduction, distributed with 15 patients in each treatment group (P = 0.62). We observed no difference between treatment groups with regard to fluoroscopy, ablation, or procedure times, nor peri-procedural complications.
Conclusion
Contact force-guided ablation does not reduce re-conduction across the CTI after 3 months, nor does CF-guided ablation shorten fluoroscopy, ablation, or total procedure times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikkel Giehm-Reese
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Mads Brix Kronborg
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Peter Lukac
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Steen Buus Kristiansen
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Henrik Kjærulf Jensen
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Christian Gerdes
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jens Kristensen
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jan Møller Nielsen
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jens Cosedis Nielsen
- Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
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Hoffmayer KS, Krainski F, Shah S, Hunter J, Alegre M, Hsu JC, Feld GK. Randomized controlled trial of Amigo® robotically controlled versus manually controlled ablation of the cavo-tricuspid isthmus using a contact force ablation catheter. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2018; 51:125-132. [DOI: 10.1007/s10840-018-0319-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Miyazaki S, Iwasawa J, Taniguchi H, Nakamura H, Hachiya H, Matsuda J, Takagi T, Watanabe T, Hirao K, Iesaka Y. Creating bidirectional conduction block in the cavotricuspid isthmus by cryothermal ablation with a short freeze time: Insight from the results with a 2-minute freeze cycle. Int J Cardiol 2016; 224:149-154. [PMID: 27657464 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.09.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Revised: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Optimal freeze doses are unknown during cryothermal cavo-tricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of 2-minute freeze doses for CTI ablation. METHODS Forty-eight consecutive patients undergoing cryothermal CTI ablation following pulmonary vein isolation were enrolled. CTI ablation was performed with 2-minute freeze cycles and 8-mm tip cryocatheters. RESULTS Bidirectional CTI block was successfully achieved in 45(93.8%) patients with a median of 5.0[4.0-6.0] cryocatheter applications. The total procedure and fluoroscopic times were a median of 16.5[13.0-20.0] and 4.0[2.0-5.0]min, respectively. A crossover to radiofrequency was performed in 3 patients including 1 due to coronary spasms during the cryoapplication. The tip temperature when block was achieved was a median of -81.0[-73.3 - -84.0]°C. Application times from the start of the last application to achieving block were significantly longer in patients with acute conduction resumption than in those without (46.8±4.0 vs. 20.2±8.8s, p<0.0001), and the optimal cutoff point for predicting no acute resumption was 38.5s (sensitivity 100%, specificity 99.5%). Vasospastic angina occurred in 2 patients, during the procedure in 1 and after in another. Durability could be evaluated a median of 6.0[3.0-8.0] months after the procedure in 14 patients, and conduction resumption was observed in 8(57.1%). The majority of gaps were located at the inferior vena cava edge. CONCLUSIONS Acute CTI block was obtained by 2-minute freeze cycles with short procedure and fluoroscopic times. Care should be taken to avoid coronary spasms during the peri-procedural period. Additional cryoapplications might be required to improve conduction block durability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinsuke Miyazaki
- Cardiovascular Center, Tsuchiura Kyodo Hospital, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Jin Iwasawa
- Cardiovascular Center, Tsuchiura Kyodo Hospital, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Taniguchi
- Cardiovascular Center, Tsuchiura Kyodo Hospital, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nakamura
- Cardiovascular Center, Tsuchiura Kyodo Hospital, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Hachiya
- Cardiovascular Center, Tsuchiura Kyodo Hospital, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Junji Matsuda
- Cardiovascular Center, Tsuchiura Kyodo Hospital, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Takamitsu Takagi
- Cardiovascular Center, Tsuchiura Kyodo Hospital, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tomonori Watanabe
- Cardiovascular Center, Tsuchiura Kyodo Hospital, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kenzo Hirao
- Heart Rhythm Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshito Iesaka
- Cardiovascular Center, Tsuchiura Kyodo Hospital, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Japan
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Ammar S, Luik A, Hessling G, Bruhm A, Reents T, Semmler V, Buiatti A, Kathan S, Hofmann M, Kolb C, Schmitt C, Deisenhofer I. Ablation of perimitral flutter: acute and long-term success of the modified anterior line. Europace 2015; 17:447-52. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euu297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
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Montenero AS, Andrew P. Current treatment options for atrial flutter and results with cryocatheter ablation. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2014; 4:191-202. [PMID: 16509815 DOI: 10.1586/14779072.4.2.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Rhythm disturbances arising in the upper chambers of the heart are not uncommon. They are associated with a heavy burden of illness for the affected individual, as well as society in general. Atrial flutter, a re-entrant atrial tachycardia, is one such rhythm disturbance. The objective of this review article is twofold: first, to provide a brief insight into atrial flutter and the typical treatments for this arrhythmia in clinical practice; and second, to give an in-depth account of cryocatheter ablation as a relatively new treatment option for this potentially debilitating condition. The many recent clinical studies documenting the use of cryocatheter ablation for treatment of atrial flutter are presented, and their results briefly discussed. Overall, as cryocatheter ablation embeds itself among the arsenal of treatments for atrial flutter, the promising results from clinical studies appear destined to elevate cryocatheter ablation to a premier position among the treatment options for atrial flutter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annibale S Montenero
- MultiMedica General Hospital, Via Milanese 300, 20099, Sesto S. Giovanni, Milan, Italy.
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Feld GK, Yao B. Evaluation of the safety and effectiveness of the CryoMedix cryoablation catheter system for the treatment of atrial flutter and fibrillation. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2013; 39:37-44. [DOI: 10.1007/s10840-013-9847-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Kumar P, Gehi AK. Sudden change from counterclockwise to clockwise flutter during cavotricuspid isthmus ablation: what is the mechanism? Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2013; 6:e68-70. [PMID: 24129207 DOI: 10.1161/circep.113.000380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Prabhat Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Vijayaraman P, Dandamudi G, Naperkowski A, Oren J, Storm R, Ellenbogen KA. Adenosine facilitates dormant conduction across cavotricuspid isthmus following catheter ablation. Heart Rhythm 2012; 9:1785-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2012.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Bastani H, Drca N, Insulander P, Schwieler J, Braunschweig F, Kennebäck G, Sadigh B, Tapanainen J, Jensen-Urstad M. Cryothermal vs. radiofrequency ablation as atrial flutter therapy: a randomized comparison. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 15:420-8. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/eus261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Manusama R, Timmermans C, van der Schoot M, Philippens S, Rodriguez LM. Comparison of a 6.5, 10, and 15 mm cryoablation catheter-tip for the treatment of common atrial flutter. Europace 2012; 14:1634-8. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/eus091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Andrew P, Hamad Y, Jerat S, Montenero A, O’Connor S. Approaching a decade of cryo catheter ablation for type 1 atrial flutter—a meta-analysis and systematic review. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2011; 32:17-27. [DOI: 10.1007/s10840-011-9582-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2010] [Accepted: 04/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Kuniss M, Vogtmann T, Ventura R, Willems S, Vogt J, Grönefeld G, Hohnloser S, Zrenner B, Erdogan A, Klein G, Lemke B, Neuzner J, Neumann T, Hamm CW, Pitschner HF. Prospective randomized comparison of durability of bidirectional conduction block in the cavotricuspid isthmus in patients after ablation of common atrial flutter using cryothermy and radiofrequency energy: the CRYOTIP study. Heart Rhythm 2009; 6:1699-705. [PMID: 19959115 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2009.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2009] [Accepted: 09/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have shown that cryoablation and radiofrequency (RF) ablation are comparable with regard to success rates and safety in the treatment of common atrial flutter (AFL). Long-term success requires persistence of bidirectional conduction block (BCB) in the inferior cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI). OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine the persistence of BCB in a prospective randomized multicenter trial of the two ablation techniques. METHODS A total of 191 patients were randomized to RF ablation or cryoablation of the CTI using an 8-mm-tip catheter. In all patients, BCB was defined as the ablation end-point. Primary end-point of the study was nonpersistence of achieved BCB and/or ECG-documented relapse of common AFL within 3-month follow-up. RESULTS Acute success rates were 91% (83/91) in the RF group and 89% (80/90) in the cryoablation group (P = NS). Invasive follow-up after 3 months with repeated electrophysiologic study was available for 60 patients in the RF group and 64 patients in the cryoablation group. Persistent BCB could be confirmed in 85% of the RF group versus 65.6% of the cryoablation group. The primary end-point was achieved in 15% of the RF group and 34.4% of the cryoablation group (P = .014). As a secondary end-point, pain perception during ablation was significant lower in the cryoablation group (P <.001). CONCLUSION Persistence of BCB in patients treated with cryoablation reinvestigated after 3 months is inferior to that patients treated with RF ablation, as evidenced by the higher recurrence rate of common AFL seen in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malte Kuniss
- Department of Cardiology, Kerckhoff-Klinik, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
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Manusama R, Timmermans C, Pison L, Philippens S, Perez D, Rodriguez LM. Typical atrial flutter can effectively be treated using single one-minute cryoapplications: results from a repeat electrophysiological study. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2009; 26:65-72. [PMID: 19521755 PMCID: PMC2746293 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-009-9405-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2008] [Accepted: 04/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Catheter-based cryoablation (cryo) has proven to be as effective as radiofrequency energy (RF) ablation for the treatment of arrhythmias. Nevertheless, the duration of cryoapplications has been reported as being significantly longer than RF applications. Methods Thirty-seven consecutive patients (28 men; mean age 59 ± 14 years) with typical atrial flutter (AFL) underwent cryo of the cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI). Applications of 1 min were delivered with a 10-French, 10-mm tipped catheter (CryoCor™). If bidirectional CTI block was not obtained after 12 1-min applications, applications of 3 min were selectively delivered to areas of conduction breakthrough. The endpoint of the procedure was creation of bidirectional CTI block and non-inducibility of AFL. Results A median of 7 (range 3 to 12) 1-min applications were given along the CTI with a mean temperature of −88.6 ± 2.3°C. Mean fluoroscopy and procedure time were 27 ± 14 min and 110 ± 28 min respectively. Five patients required additional 3-min applications; in one patient an overextended ablation catheter prevented the completion of the index-procedure. The acute success rate of the index-procedure was 97%. In 12/24 patients, two with AFL recurrence, resumption of CTI conduction was found 4 months post-ablation. In all patients bidirectional CTI block was re-obtained after a median of one 1-min application. No additional AFL recurrences occurred, after a mean follow-up of 37 ± 3 (range 30 to 44) months. Conclusions Cryo of AFL can successfully be performed using the same application duration as used for RF ablation. Both acute and long-term results are comparable to RF ablation. AFL recurrences occurred in only a minority of patients with resumption of CTI conduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy Manusama
- Department of Cardiology, Academic Hospital Maastricht and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P.O. Box 5800, AZ 6202, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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A prospective randomised comparison of large-tip cryoablation and 8-mm-tip radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial flutter. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2008; 24:127-31. [DOI: 10.1007/s10840-008-9315-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2008] [Accepted: 09/01/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Thornton AS, Janse P, Alings M, Scholten MF, Mekel JM, Miltenburg M, Jessurun E, Jordaens L. Acute success and short-term follow-up of catheter ablation of isthmus-dependent atrial flutter; a comparison of 8 mm tip radiofrequency and cryothermy catheters. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2008; 21:241-8. [PMID: 18363087 PMCID: PMC2292475 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-008-9209-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2007] [Accepted: 01/11/2008] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To compare the acute success and short-term follow-up of ablation of atrial flutter using 8 mm tip radiofrequency (RF) and cryocatheters. Methods Sixty-two patients with atrial flutter were randomized to RF or cryocatheter (cryo) ablation. Right atrial angiography was performed to assess the isthmus. End point was bidirectional isthmus block on multiple criteria. A pain score was used and the analgesics were recorded. Patients were followed for at least 3 months. Results The acute success rate for RF was 83% vs 69% for cryo (NS). Procedure times were similar (mean 144 ± 48 min for RF, vs 158 ± 49 min for cryo). More applications were given with RF than with cryo (26 ± 17 vs. 18 ± 10, p < 0.05). Fluoroscopy time was longer with RF (29 ± 15 vs. 19 ± 12 min, p < 0.02). Peak CK, CK-MB and CK-MB mass were higher, also after 24 h in the cryo group. Troponin T did not differ. Repeated transient block during application (usually with cryoablation) seemed to predict failure. Cryothermy required significantly less analgesia (p < 0.01), and no use of long sheaths (p < 0.005). The isthmus tended to be longer in the failed procedures (p = 0.117). This was similar for both groups, as was the distribution of anatomic variations. Recurrences and complaints in the successful patients were similar for both groups, with a very low recurrence of atrial flutter after initial success. Conclusions In this randomized study there was no statistical difference but a trend to less favorable outcome with 8 mm tip cryocatheters compared to RF catheters for atrial flutter ablation. Cryoablation was associated with less discomfort, fewer applications, shorter fluoroscopy times and similar procedure times. The recurrence rate was very low. Cryotherapy can be considered for atrial flutter ablation under certain circumstances especially when it has been used previously in the same patient, such as in an AF ablation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Thornton
- Department of Clinical Electrophysiology, Thoraxcentre, Erasmus MC, Room Ba581, s Gravendijkwal 230, Rotterdam, 3015 CE, The Netherlands.
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Moreira W, Timmermans C, Wellens HJJ, Mizusawa Y, Perez D, Philippens S, Rodriguez LM. Long term outcome of cavotricuspid isthmus cryoablation for the treatment of common atrial flutter in 180 patients: a single center experience. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2008; 21:235-40. [PMID: 18236145 PMCID: PMC2292477 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-007-9197-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2007] [Accepted: 12/16/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent literature has shown that common type atrial flutter (AFL) can recur late after cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) catheter ablation using radiofrequency energy (RF). We report the long term outcome of a large group of patients undergoing CTI ablation using cryothermy for AFL in a single center. METHODS Patients with AFL referred for CTI ablation were recruited prospectively from July 2001 to July 2006. Cryoablation was performed using a deflectable, 10.5 F, 6.5 mm tip catheter. CTI block was reassessed 30 min after the last application during isoproterenol infusion. Recurrences were evaluated by 12-lead ECG and 24 h Holter recording every clinic visit (1/3/6/9 and 12 months after the procedure and yearly thereafter) or if symptoms developed. RESULTS The 180 enrolled patients had the following characteristics: 39 women (22%), mean age 58 years, no structural heart disease in 86 patients (48%), mean left atrium diameter 44+/-7 mm and mean left ventricular ejection fraction 57+/-7%. The average number of applications per patient was 7 (3 to 20) with a mean temperature and duration of -88 degrees C and 3 min, respectively. Acute success was achieved in 95% (171) of the patients. There were no complications. After a mean follow-up of 27+/-17 (from 12 to 60) months, the chronic success rate was 91%. The majority of the recurrences occurred within the first year post ablation. One hundred and twenty three patients had a history of atrial fibrillation (AF) prior to CTI ablation and 85 (69%) of those remained having AF after cryoablation. In 20 of 57 (35%) patients without a history of AF prior to CTI ablation, AF occurred during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS This prospective study showed a 91% chronic success rate (range 12 to 60 months) for cryoablation of the CTI in patients with common type AFL and ratified the frequent association of AF with AFL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendel Moreira
- Department of Cardiology, Academic Hospital Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, P.O. Box 5800, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Collins KK. Another tool for the ablation toolbox. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2007; 19:194-6. [PMID: 18031514 DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8167.2007.01022.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Bauernfeind T, Kardos A, Foldesi C, Mihalcz A, Abraham P, Szili-Torok T. Assessment of the maximum voltage-guided technique for cavotricuspid isthmus ablation during ongoing atrial flutter. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2007; 19:195-9. [PMID: 17885799 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-007-9158-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2007] [Accepted: 08/13/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to test the maximum voltage-guided cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation technique during ongoing atrial flutter. BACKGROUND Former pathological and electrophysiological studies clarified that the cavotricuspid isthmus is composed of distinct muscular bundles, which are responsible for the conduction of electrical activation. Based on this observation, a maximum voltage-guided ablation technique (MVGT) was developed. This technique was assessed during pacing from the coronary sinus and was reported to be a feasible method to reach bidirectional isthmus block without the need for a complete anatomic ablation line. METHODS This was a prospective, randomized single center study. Twenty patients underwent CTI ablation during atrial flutter. In group I (10 pts) CTI ablation was performed with complete anatomical ablation line. In group II (10 pts) ablation was guided by the highest amplitude potentials on the CTI sequentially until bidirectional isthmus block was reached. The following parameters were compared: acute success rate, procedure time, fluoroscopy time, number of radiofrequency (RF) applications and total RF duration. RESULTS In all patients, atrial flutter terminated during ablation. Bidirectional isthmus block could be achieved in all pts. Procedure time was shorter in group II (107 +/- 40 vs 68 +/- 19 min, p < 0.01). Significantly less fluoroscopy was used in group II (22.6 +/- 10.6 vs 12.1 +/- 3.8 min, p < 0.01). There were less RF applications in group II (27.1 +/- 21.5 vs 5.9 +/- 2.4, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS (1) The major finding of this study is that MVGT is a feasible method even during ongoing atrial flutter. (2) Our data confirm that MVGT is an effective technique for CTI ablation with considerable decrease in procedure and fluoroscopy times.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Bauernfeind
- Gottsegen Gorgy Hungarian Institute of Cardiology, Haller u. 29, 1096, Budapest, Hungary
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Andrew P, Montenero AS. Atrial flutter: a focus on treatment options for a common supraventricular tachyarrhythmia. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2007; 8:558-67. [PMID: 17667025 DOI: 10.2459/01.jcm.0000281711.89422.d0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Atrial flutter (AFl), a re-entrant atrial tachycardia, is a cardiac rhythm disturbance that arises in the upper chambers of the heart. This usually non-life-threatening condition can be treated by a number of medical intervention strategies, which include electrical cardioversion, pharmacological therapy, and catheter ablation. These options have been available in clinical practice for a number of years. However, catheter ablation, in the form of radiofrequency catheter ablation and cryo catheter ablation, is increasingly utilised as a first-line treatment option for AFl in certain patients. The purpose of this review article is two-fold: first, to briefly present an overview of AFl and the more familiar treatment options for this arrhythmia, and second to provide more in-depth coverage of catheter ablation technologies as a treatment option for patients with AFl. As part of the latter objective, recent clinical studies documenting the use of radiofrequency catheter ablation and cryo catheter ablation for AFl are presented and their results briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Andrew
- ATLAS Medical Research Inc., Saint Lazare, Quebec, Canada
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20
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Safety and efficacy of cryothermal and radiofrequency catheter ablation in treatment of typical atrial flutter. Chin Med J (Engl) 2007. [DOI: 10.1097/00029330-200706010-00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Collins NJ, Barlow M, Varghese P, Leitch J. Cryoablation versus Radiofrequency Ablation in the treatment of Atrial Flutter trial (CRAAFT). J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2006; 16:1-5. [PMID: 17024571 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-006-9027-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2006] [Accepted: 06/13/2006] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atrial flutter is frequently treated with radiofrequency (RF) ablation with excellent results. While RF ablation remains the gold standard for catheter based treatment of atrial flutter, cryoablation has potential advantages including painless ablation and cryoadherence to the myocardium. We performed a prospective randomised trial comparing cryoablation and RF ablation in the treatment of atrial flutter. METHODS AND RESULTS We randomised 32 consecutive patients with typical atrial flutter to either radiofrequency ablation using an 8 mm tip Blazer II XP catheter (EP Technology, San Jose, USA) or cryoablation using a 9 French 8 mm tip Freezor Max catheter (CryoCath Technologies Inc, Kirkland, QU, Canada). Twenty eight patients were then followed up for a mean of 14.7 months. The procedure was successful in producing isthmus block in all but one patient in the cryoablation group. Cryoablation was associated with a significantly longer procedure (171 vs 99 min) and ablation duration (59 vs 12.7 min), however fluoroscopy exposure was similar (30 vs 29 min). Cryoablation was associated with reduced pain scores compared with RF (mean pain score 0.4 vs 3.5). There were two recurrences of atrial flutter during follow-up, both in the cryoablation group. CONCLUSIONS Cryoablation has improved patient tolerability compared to RF ablation, however is associated with longer procedure and ablation durations. Further trials are required to confirm whether cryoablation has similar acute and chronic efficacy to RF ablation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas John Collins
- Cardiovascular Unit, John Hunter Hospital, Hunter Area Health Service, New Castle, NSW 2305, Australia
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Montenero AS, Bruno N, Antonelli A, Mangiameli D, Barbieri L, Zumbo F, Andrew P. Low clinical recurrence and procedure benefits following treatment of common atrial flutter by electrogram-guided hot spot focal cryoablation. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2006; 15:83-92. [PMID: 16755336 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-006-8486-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2005] [Accepted: 03/25/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study sought to evaluate whether electrogram-aided identification of hot spot targets produces additional clinical and/or procedure benefits when using a non-traditional focal cryo ablation method to treat common atrial flutter. METHODS A preliminary study identified a specific electrogram criterion (e.g., a stimulus to onset of electrogram time of 74 [+/- 5] ms) that produced successful cryo testing plus subsequent cryoablation with demonstrable bi-directional isthmus block created at intervention site. In the present study, 26 consecutive patients with symptomatic common atrial flutter were ablated with a 9FR 8 mm tip cryo catheter using electrogram-aided identification of hot spot targets with a stimulus to onset of electrogram time of > or =70 ms. Outcomes measured were bi-directional isthmus block at intervention, symptom and conduction recurrence at 3 month follow-up, symptom recurrence at 6 month follow-up, and procedure characteristics. RESULTS Acute success rate at intervention was 100%. The percentage of patients with symptom recurrence by 3 month follow-up was 4.5% and no additional patients had arrhythmia symptoms documented by 12 month follow-up. Repeat electrophysiological study (EPS) at 3 month follow-up identified 44% of patients with conduction recurrence. The mean +/- SD number of cryo tests and ablations were 11 +/- 9 and 2 +/- 1, respectively. Procedure, fluoroscopy and cryoapplication times were 77 +/- 29 min, 11 +/- 7 min, and 28 +/- 11 min, respectively. CONCLUSIONS A high acute success rate, plus low long-term clinical recurrence rate and procedure benefits may be achieved with electrogram-aided identification of hot spots for focal cryo ablation treatment of common atrial flutter using a 9FR 8 mm tip cryo catheter. The population of patients who were asymptomatic and had demonstrated conduction recurrence on repeat EPS at 3 month follow-up require close scrutiny over the long-term to ascertain whether they eventually experience arrhythmic symptoms. However, should these patients remain symptom-free over the long-term it would suggest that the entire isthmus may not be needed to support symptomatic common atrial flutter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annibale S Montenero
- Cardiology Department and Arrhythmia Center of Policlinico MultiMedica, Sesto S Giovanni, Milan, Italy.
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Kuniss M, Kurzidim K, Greiss H, Berkowitsch A, Sperzel J, Hamm C, Pitschner HF. Acute Success and Persistence of Bidirectional Conduction Block in the Cavotricuspid Isthmus One Month Post Cryocatheter Ablation of Common Atrial Flutter. PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY: PACE 2006; 29:146-52. [PMID: 16492299 DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2006.00308.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cryoablation is successful in the treatment of common atrial flutter. Long-term clinical success is mainly dependent on persistence of bidirectional conduction block (BCB) in the inferior cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI). Only few data on persistence of BCB post cryoablation with the reported technique are available. This prospective study aimed to test efficacy of cryo energy and persistence of BCB in the CTI 1 month post cryoablation. METHODS Cryoablation of the CTI was performed in 50 consecutive patients (64 +/- 12 years, 40 males) with symptomatic common atrial flutter using a novel 9 Fr 8-mm-tip catheter. BCB in the CTI 30 minutes following the final cryoapplication was the ablation endpoint. Thirty days post ablation, persistence of BCB was controlled by repeat electrophysiological study (EPS). RESULTS In all patients BCB was achieved with a mean of 9 (IQR 7-17.5) cryo applications and a mean cryo time of 2,378 seconds (IQR 1,680-3,474 seconds). In 5 of 50 patients, common atrial flutter recurred within 1 month post cryoablation. In 30 of 32 recurrence-free patients, persistence of BCB was verified. In 2 patients, resumption of isthmus conduction was detectable. Including relapses, 81.1% of patients (30/37) showed persistence of BCB. No patients reported pain during cryoapplication. No procedural complications were observed. CONCLUSIONS Cryoablation of the CTI using a large-tip catheter is feasible and safe in the treatment of common atrial flutter. Acute and short-term success rates are comparable to those reported for radiofrequency (RF) ablation. Besides short-term clinical success, the persistence of BCB demonstrates efficacy of the cryoablation technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malte Kuniss
- Kerckhoff-Klinik, Department of Cardiology, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
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